News August

Testosterone and Male Menopause

A low level of the male hormone testosterone is sometimes the culprit behind a number of problems including sexual dysfunction and a lack of energy. The Eye on Health team spoke with a local physician about the regression of testosterone.

It's been referred to as "male menopause," a change in a man's body associated with reduced levels of the hormone testosterone. Las Vegas urologist, Christopher Minott, says for most men, it's simply a case of nature taking its course.

"And it's believed that after somewhere in the third or fourth decade, there's a gradual decrease in the overall testosterone level," Dr. Minott said.

As the downhill slide begins, however, testosterone, produced by the testicles, will usually remain at functioning levels. The chemical plays an important role in sexual function, muscle retention and energy. Dr. Minott says on average, men maintain a significant testosterone level even when they're older.

"We don't really go through a male menopause until we get to the much later ages. Possibly for some starting in the 60's, 70's, and for some, even in the 80's."

When it comes to supplementation, Dr. Minott says there are a number of considerations. It's widely believed that testosterone contributes to the development of prostate cancer. But hormone replacement therapy may still be an option.

"It's recently been shown that testosterone in people who are hypogonadic, meaning their testosterone levels are somewhat depressed to begin with, and below normal levels, that they probably are at no more risk of prostate cancer than they were before being given these supplements."

Testosterone supplements were more commonly used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, prior to the so-called Generic Viagra and Generic Cialis era.

Source http://www.klastv.com/