Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Outward Signs

Andropause. Male Menopause. Yes, we go through menopause. And it can be as difficult physically and mentally for men as it can be for women. I can attest to that.
Part of the reason mine set in with such ferocity is that my balls never developed properly due to a serious case of mumps. So, when my testosterone levels began dropping off it was noticeable at an earlier age than most men experience.
Spontaneous boners didn't appear as often. When I did get a woody it wouldn't get as hard. I would get tired in the afternoon. My energy levels just tanked - normal activities would wear me out faster. Physical exertion caused me to tire quickly. A roller-coaster of depression set in. I didn't sleep well; tossing and turning, waking often. Morning wood? Not a chance. And that alone was reason to be depressed. 



Sex held no interest and became a chore.
Even jacking off wasn't much of a treat.
Though the Muscular Dystrophy proved to add to many of my symptoms, others pointed toward Andropause. Outward signs can be loss of body hair, breasts get larger, loss of muscle mass and weakness (a sure sign: the butt sags). Oh...some men may actually experience hot flashes. Yes, I said hot flashes. That one is also from personal experience.
Testosterone replacement is only one treatment for Andropause. There are other treatments available. If you recognize any of the symptoms in yourself, go see your doctor for a complete check-up.
According to Healthline's recent article, Warning Signs of Male Menopause, "Lifestyle changes may also help. According to Godec, 'a healthy lifestyle is the best guarantor that your testosterone will remain at a healthy level as you age.' Make sure to exercise, eat a healthy diet, and maintain a healthy weight."


To which I would add: Maintaining friendships and relationships can help keep you grounded and on track.

10 comments:

Xersex said...

how is your libido?

SickoRicko said...

Wow, you sure do have a tough row to hoe.

Your French Patrick said...

I have certainly crossed the leap of andropause, but without noticing it and without regretting it. But I know that this is not the case for everyone, and all those who suffer or have suffered of it have all my sympathy.

whkattk said...

@ Xersex - it comes and goes depending on the severity of the day.

whkattk said...

@ Rick - Yep, I guess. Can't let it keep me down, though. :-)

SickoRicko said...

You amaze me.

Bruce Jensen said...

Strong relationships and an active lifestyle worked for me. My husband and my family and friends dragged me, kicking and screaming, into facing surgery, dealing with my pain and depression, and back into living again. Dealing with aging and the changes in us can be overwhelming. Stay grounded, stay active, stay interested. Life ain't a spectator sport.

whkattk said...

@ Bruce - That's quite true. May the powers that be bless you; may they bless Bryn for always being there!

Xersex said...

Is the libido loss a problem for you?

whkattk said...

@ xersex - sometimes... I get aggravated because my brain, of course, is no different: sex is something I still think about, and the balls do ache.