Understanding Male Menopause: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
When we hear the word “menopause,” most of us don’t immediately think of men. However, men can experience some symptoms similar to those women go through during menopause. This article explores why men and menopause might actually go together after all.
Over the last few years, there has been more discussion about the so-called “male menopause.” While this isn’t entirely accurate since men don’t menstruate, the term refers to other issues men may share with women experiencing menopause.
Hot Flashes in Men
One thing men and menopause have in common is hot flashes. Men can experience hot flashes much like women do, and the effectiveness of treatments can vary widely.
A common reason for men to suffer from hot flashes is a type of therapy used to treat prostate cancer. Some medications and treatments used for this purpose can make the cancer spread, so it’s crucial to consult with a doctor before starting any new treatment.
Here are some medication options that might provide relief, but remember to always consult your doctor:
- Antidepressants: These have shown to provide some relief from hot flashes for both women and men. However, they may lead to sexual dysfunction in men and potentially increase blood pressure. Discuss with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits.
- Seizure Medications: Some drugs used to stop seizures in epileptics can also help control hot flashes. One possible side effect is dizziness. Again, consult your doctor about side effects before taking these medications.
- Natural Herbal Remedies: Men not undergoing therapy for cancer might explore natural options. Herbs like Black Cohosh or Red Clover have provided relief for some women, but results can be hit or miss. Always talk to your doctor before trying these remedies.
At the end of the day, finding the right solution for hot flashes involves trial and error. It’s a challenge, but not impossible. Consult your doctor to discuss men and menopause for more personalized advice and potential relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Male Menopause Last?
Because male menopause is less well-defined than female menopause, this is a complicated question to answer. According to some sources, the uncomfortable effects of male menopause can last 15 to 20 years as the body gradually adjusts to lower testosterone production.
How Long Does Andropause, aka Male Menopause, Last?
What are the Signs of a Midlife Crisis in a Man?
Signs of a midlife crisis can include buying a sports car, drastic changes in habits, mood swings, impulsive decision-making, shifts in sleeping habits, obsession with appearances, disconnecting from old friends, and feeling tied down without the chance for change.
What Is a Midlife Crisis – Signs, Symptoms & How to Deal with It?
Why Would a Man Have Hot Flashes?
In both men and women, hormones are to blame. About 70% of women get hot flashes at the time of menopause when estrogen levels plummet. In men, the problem is testosterone. The exception is men who have received androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer.
Hot Flashes in Men: An Update
What Happens if a Man Takes Menopause Pills?
There is not enough of either hormone to throw a man’s body out of balance with just a couple of pills. However, if a man took birth control pills on a regular basis over an extended period of time, his breasts might grow larger, his testicles might shrink, and his sex drive and amount of facial hair might decrease.
What if a Man Takes Birth Control Pills?
Why Would a Man Have Night Sweats?
Night sweats, or excessive sweating during sleep, are a common symptom in women and men. Many medical conditions and diseases can cause them. Examples include women in perimenopause or menopause; medications, hormone problems (Low-T), low blood sugar, and neurological problems.
Night Sweats Causes In Men & Women, Remedies, Treatments
What Kind of Cancer Makes You Sweat at Night?
Night sweats are an early symptom of some cancers. The most common type of cancer associated with night sweats is lymphoma. However, people who have undiagnosed cancer frequently have other symptoms as well, such as unexplained weight loss and fevers.
8 Causes of Night Sweats: Menopause and More
When Should I Be Worried About Night Sweats?
Most people who have night sweats are worried that they indicate some serious underlying disease. However, for example, if you’ve recently been ill with a minor respiratory infection, a slight fever can cause you to sweat more at night, as your body’s normal day/night temperature reset may be exaggerated.
For Vast Majority, Night Sweats Don’t Represent Medical Concern
What are Night Sweats a Sign of?
Night sweats, also known as sleep hyperhidrosis, refer to sweating at night that results in drenched sleepwear and sheets, which is unrelated to an overheated sleeping environment. Night sweats affect approximately 3 percent of the population and can be a sign of a serious disease.
Night Sweats: Causes and Treatments in Men and Women
What are the Effects of Estrogen on the Male Body?
So what does estrogen do in males? The most common symptoms of high estrogen in men include these eight: sexual dysfunction (low libido, decreased morning erections, decreased erectile function), and enlarged breasts.
8 Surprising High Estrogen Symptoms in Men
What Does High Testosterone Do to a Man?
High or low levels of testosterone can lead to dysfunction in the parts of the body normally regulated by the hormone. When a man has low testosterone or hypogonadism, he may experience reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction.
Testosterone: Functions, Deficiencies, and Supplements
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or making any changes to your current health regimen. The author is not a licensed medical practitioner and the content is based on personal research and experience.
