Could You be Suffering from Andropause: The Male Menopause?

What is Andropause?

Menopause is not just for women. Millions of men are suffering from andropause, male menopause, caused by a gradual decline in testosterone. Symptoms can manifest in physical, emotional and psychological changes. The severity of symptoms varies among individual men and this transition can span decades. Many men notice weight gain, sleep problems, memory loss, depression and erectile dysfunction, in addition to loss of energy, muscle, stamina and libido. Often times, bioidentical hormone therapy is part of the solution.

Until recently, andropause has been largely undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because of obscure symptoms and the reluctance of men to acknowledge a problem. However, due to new testing capabilities, an increased interest from the medical community and new research, it is becoming much more widely recognized, and more treatable through the use of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.

How a Man’s Body Works

Testosterone is produced in the testes and adrenal glands and is the equivalent in males to what estrogen is in females. Testosterone is necessary for normal sexual behavior and producing erections, as well as many other metabolic bodily functions. Most testosterone attaches itself to proteins in the blood. A small amount does not attach and this is called free or bioavailable testosterone, which is the most active in the body.

What Causes Andropause?

Andropause is a natural biological process caused by a steady and gradual decline in testosterone and generally begins between the ages of 40 and 55. While all men will eventually experience declining testosterone levels, only a small percentage seeks treatment. Psychological and physical stressors, medications, obesity and infections can contribute to its onset. The symptoms of andropause can be magnified by poor nutrition, stress, lack of exercise and environmental toxins, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption. Bioidentical hormone therapy and testosterone replacement therapy can help turn back the clock and alleviate the symptoms of ageing.

Treating Andropause

At Austin Wellness Clinic, our bioidentical hormone specialists, Dr. John Haest, M.D., Medical Director, and Dr. Vincent Bellonzi, D.C., C.C.N., can help you understand your symptoms and offer relief, guiding you through this natural biological process so you can look and feel younger, experience vibrant health and enjoy life to the fullest.

Doctor Haest specializes in men’s health and hormones, and works to eliminate the symptoms of andropause through the use of bioidentical hormone therapy and lifestyle modification.

We offer a wide range of services to help you regain your health and zest for life, including weight loss therapy, nutritional counseling and chelation therapy. In many cases, bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) can be part of the treatment program.

Advanced Testing

Our physicians will use state-of-the-art saliva and/or blood testing to assess your unique hormonal needs and determine the best course of treatment. Your hormone levels will be monitored closely to ensure that optimal balance is maintained. The hormones we test are:

• Testosterone – responsible for the growth and development of male sexual characteristics and reproduction
• Dihydrotestosterone – the total amount of used testosterone in your body
• Estrogen – to ensure it’s not too high
• PSA – prostate health
• Thyroid Hormones – controls metabolism
• DHEA – “master” hormone produced mainly by adrenal glands
• Cortisol – stress hormone
• Melatonin – helps regulate sleep/wake cycle
• Vitamin D – maintains normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus

Call Austin Wellness Clinic today to alleviate the discomfort of this transition, regain your health and vigor, and live your best life.

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