Irritated? Mood Swings? It Might be Andropause

Have you noticed that you are bit moody lately? Irritable for seemingly no reason at all? Or, are you unable to concentrate on even the most mundane tasks? Mood swings, irritability, poor concentration and even depression are all signs of low testosterone. And, what you may not realize is that low testosterone (or low T), occurs in all men, as levels decline gradually with age.

Andropause, sometimes referred to as male menopause, is when this gradual drop in testosterone reaches noticeable levels, ie., when you start experiencing symptoms. Most men will begin to notice signs of low testosterone around middle-age, when andropause is classically believed to occur. However, the majority of cases go undiagnosed because these signs and symptoms are dismissed as side effects of aging, meaning the large majority of men suffering from low T are needlessly plagued by mental and physical health concerns, as well as a diminished quality of life. 

Andropause and Mental Health

Low testosterone has a strong link to mental health. Men going through andropause typically suffer from mood swings, depression, an inability to focus and diminished drive or ambition. Mental health distress may be a result of the symptoms themselves, as low T can also cause loss of muscle mass, gynecomastia (man boobs), fatigue and impaired sexual performance. It may also be due to the low levels of testosterone, since the hormone is closely linked to stabilized moods. A 2015 study, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, found that among men, depression or mood swings occurs even at borderline low levels of testosterone—making it one of the earliest signs of andropause.

Treatment for Low Testosterone

Although many men suffer from andropause and its symptoms, only a few seek out treatment. The treatment for andropause is testosterone therapy. Testosterone therapy can help raise declining levels of testosterone and improve sex drive, low T depression, increase muscle mass, decrease fat mass and even boost overall general health, including lowering the risk of complications from obesity, aiding blood sugar balance and improving heart health.

Comprehensive testosterone therapy includes advanced diagnostic lab testing to determine existing hormone levels and a one-on-one consultation to review your symptoms and medical history. With this information, the team at Preventative Wellness MD can design a custom treatment plan based on your health goals and lifestyle that will address drops in testosterone due to andropause.

Schedule your first consultation with Dr. Anita Petruzzelli in Hartford today. At Preventative Wellness MD, Dr. Petruzzelli and her team can help you achieve your best health ever. Dr. Petruzzelli is among the top physicians in Connecticut specially certified to help you achieve your health and wellness goals, including treating low testosterone in men. Get started on a customized treatment plan designed to fit your lifestyle and ensure you reach optimal wellness. Begin your journey now, contact Preventative Wellness MD.