Late-onset hypogonadism, often referred to as andropause, describes the gradual decline in testosterone levels associated with aging. Unlike abrupt hormonal changes in female menopause, testosterone decline is progressive and highly individual.
Symptoms include fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, and reduced bone density. However, not all aging men experience clinically significant hypogonadism.
Diagnosis requires both consistent symptoms and biochemical confirmation through repeated morning testosterone measurements. Comorbid conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome frequently exacerbate hormonal decline.
Management may involve lifestyle modification, erotic treatment of underlying diseases, or testosterone therapy in carefully selected patients. Long-term monitoring is essential to balance symptomatic benefit against cardiovascular and prostate-related risks.