What is functional decline?

Functional decline may be caused by aging, chronic diseases, psychological stress, abnormal hormone levels, drug side effects, etc. It can be improved through lifestyle adjustments, psychological intervention, drug treatment, hormone replacement therapy, traditional Chinese medicine conditioning, etc.

1. Age growth:

As age increases, the natural decline of various functions of the human body is the main cause of functional decline. Male testosterone secretion decreases by 1%-2% every year after the age of 30, and female estrogen decreases sharply after perimenopause. This physiological degradation can lead to symptoms such as decreased physical strength, slow reaction, and weakened sexual function. Maintaining moderate exercise and balanced nutritional intake can delay the aging process.

2. Chronic diseases:

Chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension may cause vascular and neuropathy, resulting in insufficient blood supply to organs or nerve conduction disorders. The incidence of erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients is three times that of healthy people, and the risk of cognitive decline in patients with high blood pressure is increased by 40%. Controlling the progression of underlying disease is a key treatment option.

3. Psychological pressure:

Long-term anxiety and depression will affect hormone secretion through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Chronic stress caused by work pressure can reduce testosterone levels by 15%-20%. Functional decline caused by psychological factors is usually accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia and depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy combined with relaxation training has a significant effect.

4. Hormone abnormalities:

Diseases such as hypothyroidism and pituitary tumors can cause disorders in the secretion of thyroid stimulating hormone, growth hormone, etc. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome have abnormally elevated testosterone levels, and men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism have low LH/FSH values. The cause needs to be clarified through blood testing and targeted treatment can be given.

5. Drug effects:

Beta blockers in antihypertensive drugs may cause erectile dysfunction, antidepressants SSRI drugs can delay orgasm, and long-term use of glucocorticoids can inhibit hypothalamic function. Statistics show that 20% of drug-induced sexual dysfunction can recover on its own after stopping the drug. If necessary, the medication plan needs to be adjusted under the guidance of a doctor.

It is recommended to perform 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise every week, such as brisk walking, swimming, etc., which can promote endorphin secretion and improve body function. Pay attention to supplementing nutrients such as zinc and vitamin D in your diet. Deep-sea fish, nuts, dark vegetables and other ingredients can help maintain hormone balance. Establishing a regular schedule, avoiding staying up late and overexertion, and strengthening emotional communication between husband and wife can effectively alleviate dysfunction caused by psychological factors. When functional decline lasts for more than three months or is accompanied by other physical symptoms, you should promptly go to an endocrinologist or andrology/gynecology department for evaluation.