Andropause and testosterone
Andropause is the equivalent of female menopause in which it is actually possible to have a reduction in male testosterone production;
But unlike female menopause, men retain their reproductive capacity. More formally we refer to PADAM (Partial Androgen Deficiency of Aging Male) or ADAM (Aging Androgen Deficiency Male).
Andropause does not have a precise age of onset and although it is natural for aging, it represents a risk factor in itself. It is normally found in men over the age of 60 and is due to other factors such as inactivity, overweight and a physiological decrease in testosterone production. In particular, testosterone level appears to be related to the manifestation of andropause. The greater the excess weight, the lower the testosterone levels and the greater the likelihood of developing this particular hormonal condition. This notion has led experts to define the phenomenon as late-life androgen deficiency syndrome, rather than andropause.
The symptoms of andropause are closely related to testosterone production. The reduction of the testicles due to age and the ability of the Leydig cells to produce this hormone influence the severity of the symptoms experienced. The symptoms are very varied since testosterone not only acts sexually in men but also has a great direct influence on the metabolic, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal system, mental, behavioral and social dynamics of the individual.
This means that among the symptoms we can also find a certain irritability, a natural decline in cognitive functions and fragility of the bones. However, you may experience weakness in muscle strength, feelings of fatigue, decreased muscle mass, hair loss, abdominal obesity, depression, anxiety and erection problems.
The process of manifestation of these symptoms is very long and varied. A simple test to test the level of testosterone in the blood is often insufficient to allow an accurate diagnosis of andropause. A healthy lifestyle characterized by moderate exercise and a balanced diet can help men better cope with this hormonal condition. In this case, testosterone replacement therapy for a short period of time may be helpful. Testosterone is the main male hormone, essential for the development of sexual characteristics and the genital system. It intervenes in the metabolism and is used to treat genital and hormonal pathologies.
Testosterone is available in capsules, vials for intramuscular injection, gels and patches for transdermal administration. The capsules do not guarantee a constant concentration in the blood. Patches are considered the easiest way to take testosterone, but they come with costs.
The testosterone gel formulation appears to mimic the circadian rhythm of testosterone secretion. During the first year of testosterone treatment, patients on treatment must undergo medical check-ups every three months. The clinical examination must include evaluation of the prostate through the rectum and is contraindicated in cases of suspected prostate and male breast cancer.
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