Is it just aging — or male menopause? Ignoring symptoms could raise cardiovascular risks
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What feels like simple aging may actually be something more serious: male menopause. Experts warn that declining testosterone can trigger a range of physical and psychological changes that, if left untreated, may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A man who finds himself more frequently anxious or fatigued for no clear reason, struggling with memory or concentration or noticing physical changes such as reduced muscle mass and a growing belly, may be experiencing symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism — commonly referred to as male menopause.
Dr. Park Min-gu, a urology professor at Korea University Anam Hospital, explained the condition and how to manage it.
What is male menopause?
“Male menopause, also called late-onset hypogonadism, refers to the physical and mental changes that occur as testosterone levels decline,” Park said. “In general, testosterone levels in men begin to fall gradually after the age of 30. When those levels drop below the normal range and typical symptoms are present, we diagnose it as male menopause.”
What are the symptoms?
“Unlike female menopause, which occurs relatively abruptly, male menopause progresses slowly. That’s why it’s often mistaken for ordinary aging,” he said.
Symptoms include sexual dysfunction such as reduced libido or erectile issues, emotional symptoms such as depression, irritability or lethargy and physical symptoms like muscle loss and increased visceral fat. Chronic fatigue, insomnia and night sweats may also occur.
What causes it?
“The main causes include metabolic syndromes like diabetes, hyperlipidemia and obesity, as well as cardiovascular conditions and poor sleep quality,” Park said. “Excessive alcohol, smoking and stress also suppress testosterone production, so they’re deeply linked to male menopause.”
Park emphasized that untreated testosterone deficiency may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. “Addressing male menopause is not just about improving quality of life — it also plays a crucial role in promoting healthy aging.”
How is it treated?
“Treatment aims to restore testosterone levels. We do this by supplementing testosterone, typically through muscle injections,” Park explained.
However, hormone therapy isn’t suitable for everyone. “If a man is planning to have children, testosterone therapy can negatively affect sperm production. It should also be avoided by those recently treated for prostate cancer or within six months of an acute cardiovascular episode,” he said.
Can it be prevented or managed through daily habits?
Park stressed the importance of lifestyle management. “Regular exercise and healthy eating habits can significantly ease symptoms,” he said. “A combination of aerobic activities like hiking, jogging or swimming, along with strength training, is ideal.”
Aerobic exercise helps improve blood circulation, while strength training promotes testosterone secretion. He recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times a week.
“Don’t just dismiss the symptoms as part of getting older,” he said. “With proactive attention and consistent care, men can reclaim a healthier, more energetic life.”
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.