Andropause is an often neglected and frequently misunderstood condition. It affects many middle aged or older men, yet only a relatively small number of cases are diagnosed.
What maybe adds to the confusion is the unhelpful and inaccurate use of the term ‘male menopause.’ Although the Andropause – like the female Menopause, is linked to reduced hormone production, it’s a far more gradual process.
Men’s testosterone levels naturally start to decline around the age of 40. The decline is typically in the region of 1% per year – so very gradual. Many men retain fairly normal testosterone levels into later life. This decline in testosterone levels with ageing is sometimes called late-onset hypogonadism.
Andropause Symptoms
In some cases reduced testosterone levels result in symptoms including reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, loss of strength and muscle mass, mood swings, disturbed sleep and increased body fat.
All of those symptoms could have other causes and contributory factors. Other indicators of low testosterone levels include hot flushes, sweats, reduced bone density and breast discomfort or swelling.
What’s undeniable is that the effects of the Andropause can be significant and distressing – even more so because the condition isn’t well known or much talked-about.
Andropause Treatments
The most common treatment is testosterone replacement, although lifestyle changes such as better diet, exercise and reducing alcohol consumption can also make the symptoms less severe.
Given the age-related nature of the condition, it’s likely that it will affect many care provider clients. Greater awareness can only be helpful and Redcrier has created a course that takes you through the process of understanding the Andropause and how to provide appropriate support and care.
While it’s not a mainstream issue, it can be an important one. Like many other Redcrier courses, it’s there to support those who want to go beyond the basics of ticking boxes – to having the training and skills needed to meet a wide range of individual needs.
The Redcrier Andropause training course is available as either SilverBox distance learning or via eBox. You can find more details here.
