Andropause is often referred to as male menopause, since it has to do with low levels of testosterone. Understanding andropause symptoms can help your pinpoint the reason why certain things seem to be happening, and motivate you to talk with a physician about treatment options. Here are some of the more common signs associated with the condition.
Fatigue
One of the more common andropause symptoms is fatigue. More than simply feeling the need for a nap, physical and mental fatigue can make it difficult to function at home or at work. Since so many different health issues can lead to a loss of energy and brain fog, you should see a physician and undergo a series of tests to find out if your testosterone levels are within a normal range. If not, replacement therapy may be what you need to feel more like yourself again.
Irritability and Moodiness
People who are normally balanced in their moods and temperaments will find that this condition causes them to become upset about things that never bothered them in the past. Among all the andropause symptoms, this is the one that is most likely to cause damage to relationships. You may find yourself wondering why things that were never a big deal before now fill you with such rage. The underlying issue could be that your balance of androgens is out of sync.
Loss of Interest in Sex
Another of the more discomfiting andropause symptoms is a loss of libido. In times past, you looked forward to intimate time with your partner. The sensation of being together brought you a great deal of happiness. Now, it seems as if you are only going through the motions at best. Even if your partner seems to be satisfied, you don’t get much pleasure from the encounter.
Erectile Dysfunction
In more advanced stages, andropause can interfere with the ability to achieve and sustain an erection. If your physician checks your levels and finds they are low, the treatments will gradually increase those levels and you will find that your ability to get aroused and stay that way returns.
Loss of Muscle Mass
Men are not the only ones who will lose muscle as a result of andropause. If you are finding that your workouts are not producing the results that came so easily in the past, low testosterone may be the culprit. A patch or injections may be what you need to get back on track.
Self-Doubt
Situations that you once faced without blinking an eye are now intimidating. The prospect of going after a promotion or pursuing someone who you find interesting is impossible, simply because you feel you are not good enough.
Anxiety and Depression
Andropause symptoms are not limited to physical manifestations. When you find that your mind will not stop racing or that you experience panic attacks for no apparent reason, it could be due to an androgen imbalance. If you used to look forward to each day and not find that you have to drag yourself out of bed and only do what is absolutely necessary, you could have depression brought on by this condition.
Keep in mind that all of the more common andropause symptoms are associated with other health issues. The only way to be sure is to see a physician and undergo testing. If the problem is low levels of testosterone, rest assured that you do not have to live this way the rest of your life. With the right plan of action, you can get those levels back within a reasonable range and begin to feel good again.
