It is a fact, as men age their testosterone level usually declines. This phenomenon is often termed ANDROPAUSE. Andropause is an absolute or relative insufficiency of testosterone in relation to the needs of an individual at that time of his life. This means that not all men with lower levels of testosterone need to be treated… and not all men with normal testosterone levels should NOT be treated. This is something that is very individualized and depends on whether the man is having any signs or symptoms.
Functions of Testosterone:
- Sex hormone responsible for sperm production, libido and sexual performance. In addition, there are testosterone receptors all over a male’s body.
- Involvement with protein production and muscle formation
- Bone development
- Increased oxygen uptake
- Aids in blood sugar control
- Helps regulate cholesterol
- Helps maintain a powerful immune system
- Aids in mental acuity
- Improves mood
- Protects against Alzheimer’s disease
The following are some common symptoms of Andropause:
Signs and Symptoms of Andropause/Hypogonadism
- Decreased energy, motivation, initiative, aggressiveness, self-confidence
- Depressed feelings, dysthymia
- Poor concentration and memory
- Sleep disturbance, increased sleepiness
- Mild normochromic anemia (HCT 35-39)
- Increased body fat, BMI
- Elevated Cholesterol
- Increased risk of Heart Disease
- Increased risk of Insulin Resistance and Diabetes
- Joint Pain
- Diminished physical or work performance
- Incomplete sexual development, aspermia
- Reduced sexual desire (libido) and activity
- Decreased spontaneous erections and intensity of orgasm
- Breast discomfort, gynecomastia
- Inability to conceive, low or zero sperm counts
- Height loss, low bone mineral density, low impact traumatic (pathologic) fracture
- Hot flushes, sweating, mood irritability
Testosterone SHOULD NOT be taken orally. The way it is metabolized can put a man at risk for cancer and other negative events. Therefore, it is usually given transdermally, through injections or through pellet therapy. Dr. Ohms will go over the pros and cons of each method, if a patient is a good candidate for supplementation.
Recent Controversy Surrounding Male Testosterone Replacement
There is much debate over the recent studies that showed increased risk of Cardiovascular Events. First, one of the studies was done as a retrospective comparison study. This means that data from previous studies done for other reasons was compiled and evaluated. The problem with this kind of analysis is no cause and effect relationship can be established. The other factors that made this study flawed, were: First – There was no lab data on the Testosterone levels and whether these men were “balanced” with their treatment; Second- The results were calculated in increased risk/ONE THOUSAND years. This does not portray accurate risks of someone living around 100 years. The Second study was an adverse events study that gathered results in men with tremendous mobility limitations. These men were given testosterone to see whether they could increase strength, endurance and mobility. The results showed a positive effect in that regard. However, there were increased cardiovascular events. This is understandable given the mobility limitations and then to start having more energy and mobility. It shows that we must use the treatment judiciously, especially in special circumstances. However, there are a great deal of studies that show decreased cardiovascular risk and a protective effect in males with correctly balanced testosterone. Please refer to the research section for these references.
Estrogen and Progesterone also play a part in Male Hormone regulation. It is important to measure these levels and properly diagnose any imbalances prior to treatment.
Other Hormones to Consider:
As with the Female Body, the Male Body has many hormones that play a part and must be balanced in order for the whole system to function properly. There are many other hormones and metabolic processes that Dr. Ohms will check when doing your initial and subsequent work ups. The following are some of the hormones that influence the sex hormones in men, and may play a part in your symptomology:
- Thyroid
- Cortisol
- DHEA
- SHBG
- Insulin
- Pregnenolone
Just to name a few! In addition, Nutrition and Vitamin & Mineral Deficiencies, Amino Acid Deficiencies, Toxicities and Genetic Defects can play a role in making your Hormone Symphony suboptimal.