Andropause

Andropause is the male equivalent of female menopause. It is caused by a decline in testosterone as you age. Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles and is responsible for male sex characteristics. A decrease in testosterone is gradual for men, beginning around age 30. By age 80, a male only has one-fifth of the testosterone they had as a youth. Stress can also accelerate the rate of decline.

Low testosterone can cause many problems for men.

About 5 million men in the U.S. currently have symptoms of low testosterone or hypogonadism, but only 5% to 10% ever seek treatment.

The symptoms of andropause include:

  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Thinning bones
  • Low energy level
  • Irritability
  • Night sweats
  • Sleep apnea
  • Hair loss
  • Hot flashes
  • Memory loss
  • Gynecomastia (male breasts)
  • Depression
  • Weight gain

If you have low testosterone, you are at a higher risk for heart disease, high cholesterol, anemia, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. Testosterone balance is essential for other health reasons. Testosterone supports overall health, lowers risk factors and improves sexual health.

It is important to have detailed tests to check for active testosterone levels. The Center for Anti-Aging and Metabolic Medicine measures your free testosterone level, which is the amount of usable hormone in the body. Many times, patients will also encounter higher levels of estrogen due to obesity, diet, alcohol use and low zinc. Estrogen levels will also be evaluated as needed.

Treatment is convenient, effective and essential.

Treatment for andropause is important to improve quality of life and prevent disease in men. Bioidentical hormones are used because they are molecularly identical to hormones produced naturally in your body. Bioidentical hormones are derived from natural sources. Replacement options will be discussed by staff at The Center for Anti-Aging and Metabolic Medicine and can be designed to meet each patient's needs. Special pharmacies called compounding pharmacies are used to make testosterone into patches, tablets, injections or gels and creams. These options will be discussed with staff on your visit. Lifestyle factors will be addressed, such as alcohol use, diet, exercise and stress and tailored to your needs.

The Center for Anti-Aging and Metabolic Medicine provides a comprehensive evaluation of your health and lifestyle. Each patient receives individual attention and care.

“After years (decades) of thinking I was healthy (read: macho American male), and frustration of bad hormone levels, I became a patient of Dr. Flowers. In my fourth month of treatment, my body chemistry is within normal ranges, I have lost over 30 lbs., I have noticeably more energy, and am motivated to exercise every day. I am excited to see what I can be after year under Dr. Flowers care.”

- Ron Fitzkee

“The Flowers group has been a life saver! They have helped me over come 7 years of illness in almost 4 months! So thankful for all of their knowledge and the compassion they have for their patients.”

- Sheridan Smith

“I’ve been seeing Dr. Flowers for about 9 months and I love the personal attention I get from him and the office staff! I am never rushed out nor have I ever had the “next” feeling you get with so many traditional Doctors’ offices these days. I love the more natural whole body approach to healing and would recommend him to anyone!”

- Deanna Reynolds

“Love the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff and Dr. Flowers.”

- SS

“They gave me hope that I would be overcoming my issues and feeling better soon.”

- BD

“I love the individual attention I received from Dr. Flowers and the time he allotted for my visit.”

- DD

“There is a lot of one on one time with both Doctor and Nurses and I feel that my concerns and comments are heard.”

- KH

“Liked the personal attention given by Misty and Dr. Flowers. I appreciated the hour block of time where I could sit down and really go over all the lab results and treatment plan. Never felt rushed.”

- JE