Really old age: signs of male menopause

The concept of male menopause causes a lot of discussion, including in scientific circles, since age-related changes in the male body, affecting the work of the genitourinary system and other organs, associated with changes in hormone production, are very different from similar changes in the female body, which considered to be the climax. If for a woman this period of life is characterized primarily by the loss of the ability to bear children, then the signs of male menopause are far from being so unambiguous, and the reproductive function of a man can persist until old age. However, knowing how a patient's health changes in old age can significantly improve their quality of life.

How to recognize the signs of male menopause

The essence of the process, which is called male menopause, as well as andropause or testosterone deficiency syndrome, is age-related hormonal changes that entail disruptions in the functioning of all organs and systems. Such changes in the production of hormones, due to the gradual aging of the body, occur at different times, which is most often determined genetically or due to certain diseases. Clinical signs of male menopause, which appeared before the age of 45, are considered early menopause, and after 60 - late.

The aging process of the male body is accompanied by a decrease in the secretion of the sex hormone testosterone and an increase in the level of globulin, which binds this hormone and does not allow it to enter the tissues of the body. This increases the work of estrogen, increases the level of follicle-stimulating hormone. Signs of male menopause may appear earlier if the following factors are present:

• tumors or injuries of the testicles,
• mumps,
• infectious diseases of the urinary system,
• permanent intoxication of the body due to smoking or alcohol abuse.

Symptoms indicating the first signs of male menopause

The clinical signs of male menopause are different for each patient, but there are some basic symptoms that allow the doctor to assume the onset of hormonal changes in the body of a man. Among these symptoms, it is worth noting the following:

decreased libido;
impaired erection;
premature ejaculation;
difficulty reaching orgasm;
decrease in sensitivity of the penis.

In addition to changes in the genital area, signs of male menopause are also noted in the work of other organs. Thus, most elderly patients note sleep disturbance and increased irritability, hot flashes and increased sweating, decreased performance and increased fatigue, mood swings and memory impairment.

Male menopause causes urinary disorders, fluctuations in blood pressure, arrhythmias, constipation, increased cholesterol levels and bone fragility. Hormonal changes in the body of a man lead to metabolic disorders, which is accompanied by distinct external manifestations: a decrease in muscle mass and weight gain, gynecomastia, the development of sagging and dry skin, the appearance of deep wrinkles, a decrease in hair on the limbs and in the pubic zone.

Due to hormonal changes that lead to malfunctions in the work of the whole body of a man during menopause, the risk of developing heart attacks and ischemic strokes, atherosclerosis and osteoporosis increases. Signs of male menopause should be the reason for a comprehensive examination of the body in order not to miss the development of tumors and endocrine diseases against their background.

Thus, the male body is subject to age-related hormonal changes on a par with the female, although the signs of male menopause have their own characteristics. But at the same time, the quality of life of an elderly patient can and should be corrected by properly selected substitution therapy.