(NewsNation) — The term “male menopause” is sometimes used to describe the gradual decline in testosterone levels that occurs as men age.
“Andras” in Greek means human male and “pause” in Greek a cessation; so literally “andropause” is defined as a syndrome associated with a decrease in sexual satisfaction or a decline in a feeling of general well-being with low levels of testosterone in older men, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Unlike the dramatic hormone plunge women experience during menopause over a short period, the drop in testosterone and other hormones in men happens very gradually over many years, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The gradual decline of testosterone in aging men
On average, testosterone levels in men start to drop by about 1% per year after age 40. However, most older men still have testosterone in the normal range, per the Mayo Clinic.
Only an estimated 10-25% of men have levels considered to be low.
About 2 in 10 men over the age of 60 suffer from low testosterone levels, according to the American Urological Association.
Signs and symptoms
Low testosterone often goes unnoticed in older men, as many experience no symptoms. Possible signs and symptoms include:
- Reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction
- Breast discomfort or swelling
- Infertility
- Loss of height, low trauma fractures, low bone density
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Decreased energy, motivation, confidence
- Depressed mood, poor concentration
- Increased sleepiness, sleep disturbances, mild anemia
- Reduced muscle mass and strength, increased body fat
Testing and diagnosing
Experts recommend only testing for low testosterone in older men if they have signs or symptoms. An initial low test should be repeated to confirm.
Further testing of the pituitary gland may be done to determine the cause.
Treatment options
Treatment recommendations vary, but testosterone therapy may be considered for men with low levels and symptoms like sexual dysfunction.
Potential risks of testosterone therapy include stimulating prostate/breast cancer growth, increased heart attack/stroke risk, and blood clots. Doctors may advise against treatment for men with certain conditions.