Our bodies go through many changes as we grow older. One of those changes is a decrease in hormone production, and this can cause an imbalance in our overall hormone levels.
Interestingly, a hormonal imbalance can occur at any point in a man’s life. However, hormone imbalances tend to occur more frequently in men as we reach age 40 and beyond.
How Does Hormone Imbalance Affect Men?
Some of the ways in which an increase in some hormones and a decrease in others tend to impact a man’s life include the following:
Low Testosterone
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, and it is responsible for regulating male fertility, red blood cell production, fat distribution, and muscle mass. It also contributes to the development of male reproductive tissues and organs.
When the levels of testosterone in a man’s body drop below normal, this is called low testosterone, or low-T. A man’s testosterone level decreases by about 1% each year starting in their 20s; they can expect this hormone level to range at around 50% of peak level by about age 70.
Low testosterone in men is attributed to obesity, testicular injuries, higher stress levels, higher blood sugar levels, cancer, and adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease, or low levels of cortisol and/or aldosterone). Fortunately, there are now medical treatments available that can help a man’s body get back into balance so he doesn’t have to suffer the harsh consequences of low-T.
Emotional Changes
In addition to potentially lowered libido, men can experience an array of emotional and psychological changes caused by a natural hormone imbalance due to aging. These changes can include the following:
Lower Mood and Energy
Since testosterone also functions as a mood regulator, men over 40 may experience sad and dark moods due to low levels of this hormone. Before seeing a therapist or psychiatrist, it is best for a man to have his testosterone levels checked. Medical researchers have found that depression may be the first symptom of andropause, which is similar to what women experience during menopause – so a rebalancing of his hormone levels may be the right solution.
Brain Fog
Men who find that their thoughts elude them quickly, and that their memory is not as sharp as it once was, may be experiencing brain fog due to imbalanced levels of hormones. This can also cause difficulty in concentrating and a loss of interest in normal activities.
Insomnia
Low testosterone levels can also result in sleeping problems such as insomnia. Men with low-T often report that they have more difficulty falling and staying asleep than when they were younger. Due to the lack of sound sleep, they may experience daytime sleepiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment for Low-T in Phoenix
Low testosterone levels may bring a handful of changes to your mind, body, and routine, but there is treatment available to help bring your hormone levels back into balance. To address hormone imbalances with early detection and treatment, visit us at Ironwood Urology. Dr. Desi Avila has years of experience focusing on men’s health issues here in Phoenix.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Avila, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (480) 961-2323 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you feel like yourself again.
