Dealing With Male Menopause

It is not necessary that every male will go through andropause or male menopause. There are many men who do not face this problem at all and keep producing sperms even after 70 years of age.

But most of the men between the age group of 40 to 60 do experience a decline in the male hormone testosterone. Since there is reduced amount of androgens the condition is called andropause. It proceeds slowly.

The initial signs may include problem in sex life, getting tired easily, weakness and depression. These signs have a direct relation with reduced levels of testosterone in the body.

Most of the men do not accept that they are facing a hormonal imbalance. They deny and this worsens the condition.

Male menopause is somewhat similar to female menopause with respect to occurrence of hot flashes, mood swings, increased irritability, etc. Some men experience disturbed sleep, indulge in over eating and appear unconfident.

Dealing With It

Hot flashes and night sweats are difficult to bear. One must remain calm during hot flushes. Do not panic. Wear comfortable clothing at night.

Do not consume such foods that act as natural nerve stimulants. These include coffee and alcohol. Quit smoking. Excess salty or sweet foods must also be avoided. Fluid retention may increase the blood pressure and thus make the andropause worse.

One must lead a healthy lifestyle. Eat foods rich in antioxidants and fiber. Regular exercise considerably helps in balancing the hormones. Most of the junk food we eat provides us with xenoestrogens.

Estrogen, as is known, is a female hormone. These hormone doses from environment create significant imbalance inside the body. Resultant release of luteinizing hormone (LH) is primarily responsible for night sweats.

Herbal Remedies

Most of the herbs used to treat male menopause are the ones used to increase sexual ability in men. Most of them aim at increasing the levels of testosterone in the body. Additionally, these herbs help providing relief from headaches, GIT related trouble and fatigue.

Black Cohosh and ginseng are two such herbs. Supplementation of both (separately) is beneficial. Excess supplementation of Black Cohosh may alter regular functioning of liver but no side effects have been reported with ginseng.

Untreated male menopause may lead to clinical depression.