Andropause

In recent years there has been greater awareness of the fact that men also go through "the menopause". The male menopause is often referred to as the "andropause" or "virile menopause" (virile = male).

Causes and symptoms

Men of a slightly more advanced age often suffer from listlessness or problems with libido and erections. Such problems are typically associated with a reduction in the male hormones DHEA and testosterone. Unlike in women, the drop in hormone levels does not occur at a specific time but tends to take place gradually over a number of years.
This androgen deficiency, or deficit in male hormones, can cause numerous symptoms in addition to those named above: reduced vitality, intolerance to stress, withering skin, a breakdown in muscles with an associated redistribution of body fat and muscle mass, known as body composition, hair loss, anaemia and osteoporosis.

The female hormones, i.e. oestrogens, also play an important role in men. Very low oestrogen levels may contribute towards increased sweating, cardiovascular diseases, arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis and erectile dysfunction in men.

Treatment

To begin with, the hormone levels are screened by taking a blood test. There will also be a medical consultation to discuss the current symptoms, previous diseases and lifestyle. Subsequently, therapy with natural hormones will be administered in order to compensate for any hormone deficiency. Vitamins, minerals or antioxidants may be added to support such therapy.

How to help yourself

Regular physical exercise is important. This helps to stimulate the metabolism and circulation, slow the transformation processes in the organism and prevent obesity. Moreover, a balanced diet consisting of plenty of fresh vegetables and lean meat and fish, as well as low-fat milk products, is very important. Try to drink plenty of water and unsweetened tea. Nicotine and excess alcohol should be avoided.