Men may experience a phenomenon similar to female menopause called andropause. What has for many years been labeled as a mid-life crisis in men can know be medically explained. A man in his mid-thirties may begin to experience certain symptoms associated with andropause. However, for most this may not occur until the ages of 40 to 55. Simply stated, andropause is a condition of hormonal imbalance, the result of low testosterone levels, elevated estrogen levels, or a combination of the two. Unlike women, men do not have a clear-cut indicator such as the cessation of menstruation to mark this transition.

Andropause may occur gradually over a period of time and because it is often misdiagnosed the symptoms are attributed to other problems. Generally, testosterone levels in the average male in his thirties decrease by as much as 10% every decade. It is estimated that 20% of men between the ages of 60-80 have levels below normal. When the loss is gradual most men continue living normal lives without any meaningful interruption in their quality of life. Some of the symptoms for men with greater testosterone deficiency include fatigue, loss of energy, loss of sex drive loss of agility, impotence, decreased muscle mass and strength, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety and mood swings. Left untreated, this deficiency can further expose them to other long-term risks such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.

Like menopause, andropause is a natural progression that can be addressed through bio-identical hormone therapy. This therapy works by "rebalancing" the system with testosterone supplementation. By taking positive steps to restore normal balance many men can regain vitality and continue a normal life in every respect.

Because no two men are the same, these supplemental bio-identical natural hormones should be compounded to match the body's specific needs. Proper testing is necessary before undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. Ask your doctor how you can benefit.

A compounding pharmacy like Rock Ridge Pharmacy, can compound the necessary medication tailored to meet the specifications of doctor and patient.