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In the Know
Ask A Professional
Mike Clark
Natural Bio Health
11615 Angus Road
Suite 108
(512) 343-9525
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Q:Is there really a male menopause?
A:Andropause is the male equivalent to menopause, the time in a woman’s life of distinct hormonal changes. Like women, men endure hormonal declines that are characterized by physical and emotional changes.
The majority of these physical, mental and emotional changes begin around age 40 for most men. It has been estimated by some researchers that as many as 25 million American men between 40 and 55 are experiencing signs and symptoms of andropause.
Q: What are some signs of andropause?
A:The most common signs include declines in libido, sexual function, muscle mass and strength along with fatigue and depression.
Q:Why is testosterone so important as we get older?
A:Testosterone is the hormone that decreases most in production as a man ages. This decline is the single most important cause of andropause. Testosterone levels peak in a man at approximately age 25 to 30 and then begin a gradual decline. Some men have low testosterone by age 40; some have low levels at a much earlier age. Clinical research shows an inverse relationship between the levels of free testosterone, heart disease and brain function. These levels continue declining as men age. Furthermore, healthy young males who become overweight, weak, depressed and tired later in life are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Q:How can andropause be treated?
A: Andropause can be treated with bio-identical hormone replacement. Bio-identical testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and thyroid hormone are some of the natural hormones that defeat andropause. It is critical that proper blood tests be performed to determine and monitor hormone levels. Male testosterone levels can be restored to optimal levels — that of a healthy male between 21 and 30 years of age.
Q:What are some of the benefits of bio-identical hormone replacement?
A:Benefits include increased libido and sexual function, increased muscle mass, increased energy, elimination of depression and protection against heart disease, prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
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