The changes brought about by andropause may be hormonal, sexual, psychological, social, interpersonal or spiritual

As described earlier, andropause is characterized by a reduction in the hormone testosterone.

Andropause is not marked by clear-cut signals, like cessation of menstruation, as in the case of female menopause.. During menopause the decline in female hormone is abrupt. However in men, andropause may be long -drawn and gradual extending sometimes, over several decades.

The onset of andropause cannot be predicted. The changes brought about by andropause may be hormonal, sexual, psychological, social, interpersonal or spiritual. The symptoms may vary with individuals and may impact their quality of life by exposing them to heart diseases or osteoporosis.

Andropause should not be confused with erectile dysfunction. The arousal, aggression and the ‘flame of desire’ in men is usually connected to the level of free testosterone and any decrease in its level can cause a subdued feeling of sexual desire and loss in libido.

Some of the risk factors that bring about andropause are -

• Psychological stress

• Attitude

• Physical stress (injuries or surgery),

• Medications

• Alcohol

• Obesity

• Infections

Some of the common symptoms of andropause are listed below -

• Irritability

• Fatigue/tiredness

• Disinterest /lack of enthusiasm

• Depression

• Nervousness

• Impaired memory

• Reduced/loss of libido

• Nervousness

• Increased sweating

• Sexual dysfunction/erection problems

• Loss in height