**SPONSORED CONTENT BY GATEWAY MEDICAL CENTER**

Sleepiness, muscle loss, less interest in sex — these symptoms may occur in women during menopause, but they can also characterize hormone changes in men, a condition some
call “manopause.”

Manopause, clinically known as andropause, is also referred to by many other names, including male menopause, testosterone deficiency and late-onset hypogonadism. All describe the same condition: an age-related decline in the hormone testosterone, potentially resulting in symptoms that affect quality of life.

Men gradually lose testosterone beginning in their 30s. Low testosterone is typically diagnosed when the level of the hormone in the blood dips below 300 nanograms per deciliter. Nearly 40 percent of men older than age 45 have low testosterone, according to the Urology Care Foundation.

Time to Take Control
Andropause goes unnoticed by some men, but for others, it affects nearly every aspect of life, including:

• Energy — Male menopause can lead to fatigue by disrupting sleep cycles.
• Libido — Sexual desire and ability may suffer.
• Mood — Men might struggle to focus on tasks, find inspiration or shed feelings of sadness.
• Strength — Muscle volume and bone density may decrease.
• Weight — Some men see their body fat increase.

Speak with your doctor about the possibility of male menopause if you experience physical and emotional changes. He or she will likely order a blood test to check your testosterone level. If it’s low, a combination of topical or injected testosterone replacement therapy, exercise, healthful eating and treatment for emotional issues may help you feel more like your old self.

You don’t have to accept symptoms of andropause as just another part of getting older. Speak with your doctor about what you can do to rediscover all you’ve been missing. If you don’t already have a physician, you can find a list on our website, TodaysGateway.com.

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This publication in no way seeks to diagnose or treat illness or to serve as a substitute for professional medical care.