Men, Don't Write It Off as "Just Getting Older."

Most men expect their bodies to change with age. They may notice they don't have the same energy they once did. Some experience changes in their sex drive or sexual function. Others simply don't feel like themselves.

While aging does bring natural changes, they should not all be dismissed as "just getting older” nor should men just accept a decline in their health or quality of life.

“One of the biggest concerns I hear from men as they get older is remaining healthy enough to continue doing the things they enjoy,” says Dr. Angel Rodriguez, primary care physician at White Plains Physician Associates Pleasantville. “The good news is many men are increasingly prioritizing mental health, stress management, quality sleep, and brain health as part of their overall well-being. Yet, many men still delay routine checkups or ignore symptoms until they become more serious.”

Here is what he wants men to know to help them feel their best for years to come.

When Is It More Than Just Aging?

Unlike women, who experience menopause over a relatively defined period, men undergo a much more gradual decline in hormones such as testosterone. These age-related changes are sometimes referred to as andropause, or late-onset hypogonadism, although they occur slowly and vary considerably from one man to another.

Some men notice very little change, while others experience symptoms that affect their daily lives, including:

• Persistent fatigue or low energy
• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
• Reduced muscle mass or strength
• Lower sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Mood changes or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Poor sleep

Dr. Rodriguez advises, “If they're persistent or affecting your quality of life, don't ignore them.”

Your Body May Be Telling You Something Else

One of the biggest misconceptions is that these symptoms automatically mean low testosterone.

In reality, many different health conditions can cause the same symptoms, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea, obesity, depression, cardiovascular disease and even medication side effects. Lifestyle factors—including chronic stress, poor sleep, limited physical activity and unhealthy eating habits—can also play a significant role.

"Erectile dysfunction, for example, can sometimes be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease because changes in blood flow may appear there before they affect the heart," Dr. Rodriguez explains.

Fortunately, many of these conditions can be managed, making an accurate – and early – diagnosis the first step toward effective treatment.

Why Men Don't Talk About It

For many men, the hardest part isn't dealing with symptoms—it's bringing them up.

“There's still a 'macho man' mindset that tells many men they should be tough, self-reliant and able to handle problems on their own," says Dr. Rodriguez. "As a result, they may hide symptoms or simply accept them rather than seek help. Seeking help isn't a sign of weakness and staying silent can delay the diagnosis of conditions that are often highly treatable.”

The Truth About Testosterone—and Those "Wonder Pills"

Advertisements promising renewed energy, increased muscle, improved sexual performance and restored vitality seem to be everywhere.
While some men do have testosterone deficiency, Dr. Rodriguez says it's important not to assume that's what's causing symptoms.
"These symptoms are not specific to low testosterone," he says. "They may be caused by a variety of medical conditions or lifestyle factors."

Testosterone replacement therapy can be an effective treatment—but only for men who have both persistent symptoms and consistently low testosterone levels confirmed through appropriate blood testing.

Over-the-counter "testosterone boosters" are another story. Unlike prescription medications, these supplements aren't required to undergo the same rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness. Many have little quality scientific evidence to support their claims, and some may contain ingredients that interact with medications or pose health risks.

"The best first step isn't ordering a supplement online," says Dr. Rodriguez. "Talking with your provider to identify the underlying cause of symptoms is."

Keep Feeling Like Your Best Self

Taking care of your health isn't about waiting until something feels wrong—it's about staying ahead of problems before they develop.
As men enter their 40s, 50s and beyond, Dr. Rodriguez encourages men to establish an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider and stay up to date with recommended screenings.

And, whether it's declining energy, changes in sexual health, unexplained weight gain or simply not feeling like yourself, don't assume it's something you have to live with.

"Aging is inevitable, but poor health doesn't have to be," says Dr. Rodriguez.

Dr. Angel Rodriguez is the Medical Director of Primary Care at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates and he sees patients at WPHPA of Pleasantville. To schedule an appointment, call 914.849.4100.

This story originally appeared on Health Matters, a White Plains Hospital publication.