Signs of Andropause in Men and How to Treat It
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Almost everyone is familiar with the fact that when women reach middle age, their bodies begin to go through a process known as menopause. However, did you know that a percentage of men go through a similar development? This process, known as andropause, obviously has some distinct differences from menopause, but they share many similarities regarding their symptoms. At Dallas Cosmetic Center in Dallas, TX, we offer several methods of treatment for andropause that can leave men feeling just as healthy at 45 as they did at 25. Dr. Otto Huertas, a board-certified gynecologist and cosmetic surgeon, is experienced in helping patients overcome these imbalances and return to their normal lifestyles using hormone replacement therapy.
What are the causes of andropause?
While menopause affects all women at some point in their life, andropause occurs in only a portion of men. As males grow older, their testosterone levels naturally begin to wane, especially once they've reached the age of 40. If these levels become low enough, andropause will begin to become a problem.
Common symptoms of andropause in men include:
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Irritability
- Memory loss
- Muscle Loss
- Weight Gain
- Gynecomastia
- Insomnia
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Lowered libido
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Poor sexual performance
- Lack of concentration
- Loss of bone density
How is andropause diagnosed?
If you've been suffering from these symptoms and are above the age of 35, it's certainly possible you may be going through andropause. Upon your arrival at Dallas Cosmetic Center, our Dallas, TX practice, we'll bring you into one of our private treatment rooms to discuss your concerns before moving forward with an official examination.
A typical diagnosis of andropause usually includes:
- A conversation about your medical history
- A physical exam
- Blood work to test your hormones
- Urinalysis
- Diagnostic imaging, in some cases
What are the treatment methods for andropause?
As andropause is caused by an imbalance in hormones, it can also be treated by infusing the necessary hormones into the body. This treatment has come to be known as hormone replacement therapy, or HRT. There are many ways for hormone replacement therapy to be administered, such as hormone pills, patches, creams, and suppositories. However, the preferred method of Dr. Huertas is what is called HRT pellet placement technique. Using this approach, a personalized dose of the essential hormones will be injected directly into your body underneath the skin of your upper buttock. Patients undergoing this treatment will be required to return to our office approximately every 4 – 6 months for a new dose of hormones, as well as regular blood tests to ensure your hormones are perfectly balanced.
No matter the treatment method, we always recommend being conscious of living a healthy lifestyle in order to maximize your results. A proper diet and exercise plan can drastically increase the benefits of HRT by increasing your body's natural health and function. Additionally, they can help to quickly reduce some of the symptoms of andropause, including fatigue and depression.
Schedule hormone replacement therapy today
Low testosterone can cause a variety of issues spanning from the bedroom to the gym to just about anywhere. The expert staff at Dallas Cosmetic Center in Dallas, TX have experience in walking our patients through each step of the hormone replacement therapy process in order to get them back on the right track. Contact us to set up an appointment with Dr. Otto Huertas and discuss a potential treatment plan for andropause.