"I've been feeling tired easily lately" "I can't find the motivation to work or pursue my hobbies..."
Have you given up on these symptoms, thinking they're simply due to aging? In fact, the culprit may be menopause, which affects both men and women. The changes in mind and body you may experience after turning 40 could be symptoms of a decrease in male hormones.
In this article, we will provide a clear explanation of scientifically based measures to improve male menopause, from self-care measures to medical treatment.
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What is male menopause?
It's the "male version of menopause," so to speak. If you experience unexplained discomfort after turning 40, it could be male menopause. Medically, it's called LOH syndrome (late-onset hypogonadism), and it's a general term for a variety of symptoms caused by a decrease in testosterone, a type of male hormone, due to aging or severe stress.
The rate at which testosterone levels decrease varies greatly from person to person, so symptoms also vary from person to person. There have been no studies in Japan that have investigated the frequency of this condition. However, it is said that the number of men whose active male hormones in the body have decreased to a level that requires caution is one in ten in their 40s, one in five in their 50s, and one in two in their 60s. This is not something that only affects other people.
Source: Japanese Urological Association and Japan Men's Health Medical Society "LOH Syndrome Treatment Guidelines"
Symptoms of male menopause
Symptoms of male menopause are characterized by a wide range of effects, including physical, mental, and sexual function. Check the following typical symptoms and compare them to your own condition.
- Physical symptoms:Sweating, hot flashes, fatigue, loss of muscle mass and strength, loss of bone mineral density, obesity, etc.
- Psychiatric symptoms:Decreased intellectual activity, cognitive function, and orientation, mood swings, sleep disorders, and impaired concentration and memory
- Sexual function symptoms:Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Metabolic abnormalities:Sugar metabolism/lipid metabolism
Physical symptoms (including metabolic disorders)
Typical symptoms include sudden sweating, a hot flush, and a feeling of fatigue that just won't go away no matter what you do. One thing to be particularly careful of is the vicious cycle that comes with obesity. A decrease in male hormones increases visceral fat, which in turn further reduces male hormones.
In addition, a decrease in male hormones reduces the effectiveness of hormones that lower blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes and directly leading to metabolic syndrome, including high blood pressure and dyslipidemia. Furthermore, it is important to be careful about sarcopenia, a condition in which muscle mass decreases and strength declines, and osteoporosis, which causes bones to become brittle.
Psychiatric symptoms
Mental health issues such as "feeling gloomy," "getting irritated over small things," and "not being able to concentrate" may also be influenced by a decrease in male hormones. It has also been reported that people with low levels of male hormones are about three times more likely to be diagnosed with depression than those with normal levels.
Some people may also feel that they are forgetting things more often. Male hormones play an important role in the hippocampus, the part of the brain that controls memory. They have also been shown to protect nerves from substances that cause Alzheimer's disease, and are deeply involved in maintaining cognitive function.
sexual function symptoms
The most common problem men experience during male menopause is sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction (ED). This refers to a condition in which a man loses interest in sex for more than six months, causing him deep distress. This is a very sensitive issue that can affect relationships with partners.
Other symptoms include a decrease in sexual pleasure and problems with ejaculation, which can lead to complex problems that cannot be simply attributed to aging.
The role of the male hormone testosterone
Testosterone is found throughout the body and is not just a hormone related to muscle and sexual desire. It is a "source of vitality" that supports the mental and physical health of men throughout their lives.
Sufficient testosterone keeps muscles and bones strong and supports advanced brain functions such as judgment and decision-making. Conversely, a decrease in this hormone not only increases the risk of metabolic syndrome and osteoporosis, but also significantly reduces satisfaction with daily life.
From self-help measures to medical treatment. What are the scientific solutions?
Reviewing lifestyle habits
Let's reassess our lifestyles based on the four pillars of diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management. Focus on consuming protein (meat, fish, soy products), which is the building block of muscle. Ideally, we should do 40-60 minutes of aerobic exercise at least three times a week.
To improve the quality of your sleep, getting some morning light and leading a regular lifestyle are effective, while taking a bath or spending time on a hobby is effective for relieving stress.
Standard treatment at medical institutions
If self-care doesn't seem to be effective or if symptoms persist, we recommend seeing a doctor. If you are diagnosed with LOH syndrome, hormone replacement therapy (such as intramuscular injections) may be recommended.
summary
Male menopause is not an uncommon symptom. Don't just give up and blame it on age; with the right knowledge and action, you may be able to improve your condition. Start by doing a self-check and consult a specialist if necessary.
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