Male menopause

[lamble]

Touchy subject I know, but along with all these prostate adverts and the such like, and the demographic of BMW riders, plus the obvious mid life crisis that some posters blatantly have, it's got me thinking and it's a topic that may be worthy of discussion.

So, do you feel a compelling urge to restate your Alpha maleness, because there are younger bucks about?

Are you riding a sports BMW, when you know a tourer is really more suited?

Are you living off past achievements and glories, because frankly you are a washed up old fart?

Are you over compensating, when you could be growing old gracefully?

Does Rap music make you squirm?

Do you find that an ealy night, is preferrable to a night on the town?

Has a glass of wine over dinner, replaced a P*ss up down the pub?

Does your son, pat you on the head?

Do you mumble to yourself that life's not been fair?

Have you ever said, "when I was younger blah blah blah"

Or, "these kids today, they blah blah blah"



Firstly, stop saying blah blah blah, that's a dead give away.

Secondly, what are the other "symptoms" to look out for?

Thirdly, does it effect short term...thingy, you know, that what's it called?

Or, is it all just a myth, so that we can have some attention?

[Raevyn]

It's been my experience that male menopause does exist. It's psychological for men, physical for women. A certain age is reached (50) and talk starts to sound something like this: "I’m a fat old man and who would be interested in me?" Then, after months of hearing that....the transformation begins...the weight loss, the ego building and keeping secrets that eventually are found out, the moodiness and criticizing every little thing...the realization that happiness must be just around the corner rather then work on where they are presently.

Been through two now....I think I'll pass. But, I wish them well.

[Oldhway]

It's been my experience that male menopause does exist. It's psychological for men, physical for women. A certain age is reached (50) and talk starts to sound something like this: "I’m a fat old man and who would be interested in me?" Then, after months of hearing that....the transformation begins...the weight loss, the ego building and keeping secrets that eventually are found out, the moodiness and criticizing every little thing...the realization that happiness must be just around the corner rather then work on where they are presently.

Been through two now....I think I'll pass. But, I wish them well.

Hey, I just turned 50, I resemble that!

Actually, well aware of the pitfalls and have a great wife who knows how to share my life and let me share hers, so we're both happy and content.

As far as the getting in shape thing, I'm guilty there. Just starting to swim regualrly but that's for my health. The problem with turning 50 is you have to work harder to stay healthy.

[lamble]

So is it little more than reflection on life, when reaching the milestone age of 50?

Still a way to go, but looming at me quite closely.

Raevyn, are you saying HRT for ladies, but advocating a swift kick up the backside and a stern "pull yourself together" may work for a man?

[Raevyn]

Raevyn, are you saying HRT for ladies, but advocating a swift kick up the backside and a stern "pull yourself together" may work for a man?

HRT has to be an individual choice for women with all the medical opinions out there.

Actually, I don't think there is much one can do or say that would change things if a man or woman chooses another road at this pivotal point in their lives. (Some women go through it, too.) If there is a solid base, communication, respect and support for one another...I think you can get through these times. Respect is a huge factor. But if the man/woman is thinking primarily of themselves, under the ruse that they are taking the other person into consideration.....well, they'll do what they want no matter the circumstance.

I'm no expert. What do I know!!! But the swift kick sounds pretty good...:dunno

[lamble]

Raevyn,

Did the men you saw go through this, recognise it as happening, or did it need to be pointed out to them?

How would you go about pointing it out to someone, sympathetically of course and not just taking the p*ss out of them?

[Raevyn]

Raevyn,

Did the men you saw go through this, recognise it as happening, or did it need to be pointed out to them?

How would you go about pointing it out to someone, sympathetically of course and not just taking the p*ss out of them?

I don't think one realizes when they are going through it. Their thoughts and actions are justifed, for whatever reasons they come up with, in their own minds.

I believe I said.....I feel a mid-life crisis coming on!.....:doh

Sometimes you just have to cut your losses.

We need some other input here!!! :nod

[shooter55520]

This is the name the doctor gave me. She says hormonal inbalence causes health issues in any age men. The drug companeys are marketing a fast growing number of products to deal with Andropause. Likely makes them lots of money. I think hormonal issues can often be helped with lifestyle changes. At least I hope they can. LOL

[Raevyn]

Welcome, Shooter55520....

I'm not sure there is a pill for this...

[shooter55520]

I know there are no pills that can do as much for a person as a good ride. LOL Ijust started riden again after a 10 year break, it sure feels great. I believe it ages anyone when they stop being adventurious and give up things they enjoy but thats what responsabilitys often demand. Enjoy the day.

[lamble]

Here's a thought then Shooter, if you hadn't stopped riding for 10 years, but had just carried on with adventures, could the whole manopause (sic) have been avoided?

[BubbaZanetti]

you should give hip hop a try, it's not all good, but it's not all bad, just like any other music.


cept modern country:bolt

[lamble]

I have an eclectic taste in music accross most genres, however if I want to be sworn and shouted at, I don't need rap as I am married.

[lamble]

I have an eclectic taste in music across most genres, however if I want to be sworn and shouted at, I don't need rap as I am married.

Just coming dear...no nothiing about you...honest...

[rebake]

One of my sons just got his phd in ex. physiology.He did his doctorate work on hrt for men going through this and esp. those with various forms of cancer.

[shooter55520]

Here's a thought then Shooter, if you hadn't stopped riding for 10 years, but had just carried on with adventures, could the whole manopause (sic) have been avoided?

I don't know. the past has made me able to go for a ride this sunny morning but I don't think it does me any good to consider rides missed. Ride Safe

[Pat Carol]

Lamble,

What a great subject to bring up. I really think I am going through either male menopause or something like it. Some of your questions starting this thread resembled me.
I am now a young 44. I had a heart attack at 37. That was after I fractured both legs during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After my heart attack the doctor put me on anti-depressants(Zoloft). I just wheened myself off of that med. I do not believe a pill can help when I know that I am smart enough to work through things myself. Plus, the doctor's in my area love to pass out pill's. I do not consider better life through chemical's.
Currently I am finished with the withdrawal symptoms from not taking what I call the happy pill. The synergistic effects of Zoloft are mind boggling. For a little over a month I have been quite the grouch. Plus, a divorce looming has been tough along with breaking more bones in my legs.
I have noticed that I get really upset if I waste time. I am not in a hurry but, feel I have to accomplish something everyday. Whether at work or home, I set a goal for the day to accomplish something. I have never experienced an attitude like the one I have now. I have this strange new outlook in my life. I kinda like it. It is just that I become frustrated and not feel good about myself if I do not make a goal for the day. I then become very grouchy and keep to myself.
I have noticed that a person's stupidity really cranks me up and I do not hold back on advising people of their incompetencies. I guess to control that I should get a stack full of "Here's Your Sign" awards for the stupid people that I encounter in some of my day's. Instead of saying anything, I can just hand them a little sign. I am far from perfect but, geez, I do not understand how some people function in the world.
Yesterday I goofed off and rode up to Pictured Rock's in the U.P. of Michigan and sat at the edge and stared off into Lake Superior. That really felt good. Then I blasted off on my 1100rs and straightened some curve's out and managed to get pulled over by Michigan's finest. The young Trooper questioned my age and stated too me that I should be acting my age when operating my motorcycle. He didn't write me up but, gave me quite a speech on riding the speed limit and that I should also know better being a Captain on the fire department. He stated that I was a poor example. I stated too him that I must be going through a change in life and apologized for such an atrocity.
I still have an empty feeling in my heart. I feel like a feather in a wind storm. I am now 5 years from retirement and have such an empty feeling. I have made it through two Gulf War's and seen a lot of the world. I just can't understand the feeling of emptiness. I just know that I want to be proud and grow old gracefully.


Take Care, Ride Safe and Act Your Age!
Pat Carol

[lamble]

Lamble,

What a great subject to bring up. I really think I am going through either male menopause or something like it. Some of your questions starting this thread resembled me.
I am now a young 44. I had a heart attack at 37. That was after I fractured both legs during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After my heart attack the doctor put me on anti-depressants(Zoloft). I just wheened myself off of that med. I do not believe a pill can help when I know that I am smart enough to work through things myself. Plus, the doctor's in my area love to pass out pill's. I do not consider better life through chemical's.
Currently I am finished with the withdrawal symptoms from not taking what I call the happy pill. The synergistic effects of Zoloft are mind boggling. For a little over a month I have been quite the grouch. Plus, a divorce looming has been tough along with breaking more bones in my legs.
I have noticed that I get really upset if I waste time. I am not in a hurry but, feel I have to accomplish something everyday. Whether at work or home, I set a goal for the day to accomplish something. I have never experienced an attitude like the one I have now. I have this strange new outlook in my life. I kinda like it. It is just that I become frustrated and not feel good about myself if I do not make a goal for the day. I then become very grouchy and keep to myself.
I have noticed that a person's stupidity really cranks me up and I do not hold back on advising people of their incompetencies. I guess to control that I should get a stack full of "Here's Your Sign" awards for the stupid people that I encounter in some of my day's. Instead of saying anything, I can just hand them a little sign. I am far from perfect but, geez, I do not understand how some people function in the world.
Yesterday I goofed off and rode up to Pictured Rock's in the U.P. of Michigan and sat at the edge and stared off into Lake Superior. That really felt good. Then I blasted off on my 1100rs and straightened some curve's out and managed to get pulled over by Michigan's finest. The young Trooper questioned my age and stated too me that I should be acting my age when operating my motorcycle. He didn't write me up but, gave me quite a speech on riding the speed limit and that I should also know better being a Captain on the fire department. He stated that I was a poor example. I stated too him that I must be going through a change in life and apologized for such an atrocity.
I still have an empty feeling in my heart. I feel like a feather in a wind storm. I am now 5 years from retirement and have such an empty feeling. I have made it through two Gulf War's and seen a lot of the world. I just can't understand the feeling of emptiness. I just know that I want to be proud and grow old gracefully.


Take Care, Ride Safe and Act Your Age!
Pat Carol


Bloody Hell!

I've always taken such matters in a rather cavalier and flippant manner, as I guess that, so far, I've never been touched by much that a quick "pull yourself together man" hasn't been able to resolve. I'd sort of started this thread out in much the same flippant manner too.
However, Pat Carol and other posters here have made me second think that approach. I apologise for treating it so lightly.

Pat, thanks for that post, I am without any smug comments, any witty retorts or unfortunately any advice...Bloody Hell was what I wrote first and bloody hell is all I can think of, other than I hope you get through life the best you can and find elements of that journey rewarding.

Thank you for posting. I need to go away and think about your words for a while.

[lamble]

What are the real signs, not just the quirky list I threw out?

Is it something that requires a rebalancing of a chemical nature, or is it a manifestation of circumstances that life just happens to throw up at points in life?

Is it the reason why grumpy old men become grumpy, or is that just a character thing?

What are your experiences?

I'm torn between wanting to fight against aging and embracing the opportunities to be cantancerous, just for the fun of it.

[BuddingGeezer]

Male Menopause??????????????????





Ralph Sims

[lamble]

Male Menopause??????????????????

Ralph Sims

I must have it...we have a lampshade like that one...wait a minute, it was a gift, so does that still count?

[hlothery]

What are the real signs, not just the quirky list I threw out?

Is it something that requires a rebalancing of a chemical nature, or is it a manifestation of circumstances that life just happens to throw up at points in life?

Is it the reason why grumpy old men become grumpy, or is that just a character thing?

What are your experiences?

I'm torn between wanting to fight against aging and embracing the opportunities to be cantancerous, just for the fun of it.

I believe we are talking about a mythical beast, which (from a clinical point of view) is better attributed to depression. There are chemical aspects, the reduction of testosterone levels can impact the way a person feels. Those can be tested for, but most I have treated do not feel any better with testosterone supplementation. Regular exercise, proper diet will help tremendously.....much more than most people who practice neither will ever believe. But much of it is simply whether you are happy in life, or depressed about your role in it. I have few solutions for those who fall into the latter category, other than the above, and the quite effective medications for depression. I, for one, at age 59, love what I do, who I am, and who I am with in life. I wish I had felt this good when I was 20! Sorry to be such a Pollyanna, but that's the way it is.



I have heard, however, that one might develop the desire for a small, red sports car,

[DarrylRi]

I, for one, at age 59, love what I do, who I am, and who I am with in life. I wish I had felt this good when I was 20! Sorry to be such a Pollyanna, but that's the way it is.

You sound more like Dr. Pangloss, in this, the best of all possible worlds.




;)

[hlothery]

You sound more like Dr. Pangloss, in this, the best of all possible worlds.




;)

Life is sweet. Now, if I could just get 15 more yards with that driver.......:scratch

[2beers]

How does spirituallity fit into this? Does this relate, is this a branch off of this discussion or am I just full of cr&*. ( Easy Roy, I think I know your answer :blah )

I have been reading more and more about the "meaning of life" and think this may be a part of this discussion. For so long as a kid you are told you are to young to do this or that. and in a blink of an eye you are suddenly to old.

Does responsibility for family, business etc. displace the need for fun and games? For example you own a business so you have to act respectable to attract customers. If you do not allow yourself tot get silly once in a while then maybe you feel cheated and act out buy buying a new bike, sports car etc.

Or is it because you have become successful and can afford it?

Thanks PatCarol for your service and sacrifice. Be careful in you duties as a firefighter. Pictured Rocks have always brought me peace to a somewhat turbulent life.


All rise for the hymn of the day.......:brad

[hlothery]

I have been reading more and more about the "meaning of life"

......:brad

Monty Python can explain that.........:scratch

I, for one, am not very spiritual in the traditional sense. I do, however, have a profound sense of wonder about the world we live in. I am amazed at the things I do daily, and how I came to be where I am (from very humble, uneducated beginnings). I work hard to stay fit and healthy. I love my wife of 31 years, and my son of 27. I enjoyed my past military service, but love my current job more than any other I have had. I just can't think of any reason not to celebrate my age. :dunno

[lamble]

Is the manopause a new phenomenon?

You know when you build a new road that wasn't there before, cars come along and fill it, is this like that?

Someone came up with it, so now we recognise a name for what we'd have previously just called, "living"

There must be some sort of additional pressures that build up as a consequence of milestone age reflectiveness though.
"I'd planned to have done xyz by now and haven't and time is running out, plus there are all of these other committments and responsibilities, how will I fit it all in?"

Those sort of worries can surely manifest themselves in a pychosematic way, so you just feel ..."old" even though you've only aged from 49 yrs 11 months , 364 days 23 hours 59 minutes and 59 seconds, to 50 years old?

One of the reasons I'm curious, is that I always start to ponder why I need to undertake a larger ride, just before I depart. I don't need to go. Life would be simpler if I didn't go. I'd be considerably better off financially, if I didn't go. So what's the compelling factor, or factors?

It could be just nosiness, wanting to have look around at other people, it could be a desire for greater insight, it could be something that means I'll be doing these rides instead of buying a red sports car or trying to impress young girls.

I certainly don't hold with the spirituality concept of "finding myself".

So, I was wondering if I may be approaching a certain age.

I hope it's just that I've created the opportunity for myself to do these rides and because, in general, rides prove enjoyable (by no means the case all of the time), that I'm just having a jolly good time. But somehow that seems too easy a solution, too superficial...maybe that's why I need to add the tea drinking challenge..to make it more substantial, to justify six months of fun?