Hormones in the spotlight

Blood testosterone levels in men decrease with age – similar to women, whose hormone levels fall during menopause. The process is different in men, however.

While women experience an abrupt drop in hormone levels, testosterone levels in men decline gradually from around the age of forty. Not every man is affected, and the symptoms vary greatly. Terms such as "male menopause", "andropause" or "male climacteric" should therefore be treated with caution because they suggest that the menopause in women is comparable to the drop in male testosterone levels.

A severe testosterone deficiency – medically referred to as hypogonadism – can lead to various symptoms.The most common and well-known are fatigue and a lack of energy, depressive mood and irritability, osteoporosis, an increase in body fat and loss of muscle mass, sleep disorders, erectile dysfunction and a reduced sex drive. The effects go far beyond the widely known aspects of sexuality.

No, the age-related decrease in testosterone levels is a normal process that cannot be completely halted. There are measures, however, that men can take to slow down the decline and alleviate symptoms, such as regular physical activity, a healthy diet, weight management, stress reduction and sufficient sleep (7-8 hours per night).

It is important to monitor and assess hormone levels on a regular basis. This allows us to identify and treat potential health issues at an early stage, maintain physical and mental well-being and better manage age-related changes. This is why Park Igls offers specialised blood tests for men as well as ultrasound examination of the prostate and testicles, clinical urological check-ups and endocrinological consultation.

Dr Germar-Michael Pinggera from Innsbruck University Hospital, one of Austria's leading andrologists, is available as a consultant. Our guests appreciate that they do not have to leave the hotel to undergo these specialist examinations.

A change in lifestyle through Modern Mayr Medicine during a stay at Park Igls and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce symptoms. Psychological therapy and counselling are recommended in order to be able cope with emotional and psychological changes. In some cases, testosterone replacement therapy can normalise testosterone levels and alleviate symptoms.

Dr Peter Gartner, Medical Director at Park Igls, says, "If you experience symptoms or feel an imbalance in your hormone levels, consult a doctor you trust as soon as possible. Annual medical checks should be a matter of course for every man anyway. We bring our cars in for an inspection once a year. Are our vehicles more important to us than our own health? No? Exactly!"