To most men, androgens symbolize masculinity. Higher levels signify greater "manliness," while deficiency not only leads to "feminization" but also causes male sexual dysfunction, etc.……
This illustrates how crucial androgens are in men's minds.
I. Androgens are essential throughout every man's life
The term "androgen" first appeared around 1932 when researchers isolated androstenedione from urine. Subsequently, hormones like testosterone and androstenedione were extracted from testicles. These hormones stimulate the development of male secondary sex organs and characteristics, hence the collective term "androgens."
Androgens are inseparable from a man's entire life.
During fetal development, it governs genital differentiation. At puberty, surging androgen levels enable male reproductive capability while triggering pronounced secondary sexual characteristics: deepening voice, lower pitch, Adam's apple formation, and increased body hair.
Typically, male androgen levels peak around age 20.Thereafter, androgen production begins a noticeable decline, particularly after age 40. By age 50, male androgen secretion may decrease by approximately one-third, leading to discomfort symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, poor appetite, body aches, forgetfulness, poor concentration, and irritability—a phenomenon termed "male menopause."
Overall, androgens are crucial for men.
II. At 50, Are High Androgens Still Beneficial?
While androgen deficiency has negative effects, does this mean higher levels are always better? Not necessarily. At age 50, when androgen levels should naturally decline, persistently high levels can backfire, potentially leading to the following conditions.
1. Androgenetic Alopecia
Excessive androgen levels cause high testosterone to bind with receptors in hair follicle cells, leading to functional degeneration of the follicles and ultimately hair loss.
2. Impact on Prostate Function
Persistently high androgen levels after age 50 can force an aging prostate to work beyond its capacity, leading to issues like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As the enlargement progresses, it may compress the bladder and urethra, causing symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, incomplete emptying, and even affecting sexual function.
3. Endocrine Disruption
The endocrine system is a complex network encompassing not only androgens but also other hormones involved in metabolic processes. Excessive androgen secretion can disrupt the balance of these hormones, leading to endocrine dysfunction and impairing normal physiological functions.
4. Impairing Fertility
Persistently high androgen levels after age 50 can interfere with the union of male sperm and female eggs, thereby hindering conception.
Therefore, if androgen levels remain elevated beyond a certain age, don't take it as a sign of robust health—it may signal potential health risks. Seeking timely medical evaluation is advisable.
III. What Changes Occur with Androgen Deficiency?
As men age, the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis diminishes, leading to declining androgen levels and bodily changes—commonly referred to as "male menopause."
Dr. Wang Xin from the Urology Department at Beijing Hospital cautions that the following three major symptoms may indicate LOH (Late-Onset Hypogonadism):
First, overall physical decline, including muscle atrophy, reduced exercise endurance, and loss of height. Second, sexual dysfunction, such as diminished desire and erectile difficulties. Third, psychological changes like irritability, anxiety, and insomnia.
Dr. Wang further notes that beyond age, certain groups are more susceptible to LOH. These include individuals who: - Smoke or drink heavily long-term - Have chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease or depression - Lead sedentary lifestyles with little exercise - Suffer from abdominal obesity - Experience prolonged high-stress living conditions
Such individuals should be especially vigilant. If LOH-related symptoms appear, seek prompt medical evaluation and make appropriate lifestyle adjustments to prevent health risks.
Extended Reading: Understanding Androgen Properly
For men with androgen deficiency, alongside following medical guidance for medication, daily habits should also be modified, such as:
1.Moderate Exercise
Engaging in appropriate physical activity, such as jogging or swimming, not only promotes testosterone secretion but also facilitates the aromatization of testosterone in fat and brain tissue into estrogen. This estrogen then acts through estrogen receptors to exert testosterone-like effects, making regular exercise highly recommended.
2. Adequate Sleep
Chronic sleep deprivation and insufficient rest can disrupt metabolism, leading to endocrine imbalances that affect testosterone levels. Men are advised to ensure sufficient sleep.
3. Mental Adjustment
Mental state significantly impacts testosterone levels. Prolonged exposure to negative emotions like pessimism, depression, or anxiety suppresses testosterone secretion. Conversely, when testosterone drops below certain thresholds, it increases depression risk, creating a vicious cycle. Therefore, maintain a cheerful and optimistic mindset daily and learn to regulate emotions.
Healthy men should avoid indiscriminate testosterone supplementation, as this disrupts endocrine balance and may ultimately cause male pattern baldness, reduced sperm quality, and other issues.
In summary, the importance of androgens for men is self-evident. When physical abnormalities are detected, promptly seek medical examination and follow targeted adjustments based on diagnosis. Never self-administer supplements, as this may exacerbate health issues rather than resolve them.