What is irritable male syndrome?
Irritable male syndrome or Irritable Male Syndrome is caused by fluctuations in the male sex hormone testosterone. This is the reason for mood swings that lead to irritability in men.
Dr Sneha Kothari - endocrinologist at Global Hospital, Mumbai (India) - explains: "Irritable male syndrome (IMS) can be defined as a state of hypersensitivity, frustration, anxiety and anger that occurs in men and is related to biochemical changes, hormonal fluctuations, stress in men".
There are many causes of IMS, but the most common cause is low testosterone levels, which is why IMS is also known as andropause.
Symptoms of irritable male syndrome
Men can become really irritable when their testosterone levels drop. They can even get hot flashes just like women do during menopause.
IMS commonly manifests as anxiety, depression, irritability, low libido, sexual dysfunction, loss of bone density and muscle mass, headaches, and back pain.
In people with severe IMS it can cause many problems in the family and even cause broken marriages.
What causes IMS in men?
Chemical changes in the brain are often associated with a diet too high in protein and too low in healthy carbohydrates.
High stress levels combined with rapid hormonal changes in midlife may be a cause of IMS.
Poor diet and lack of exercise contribute to weight gain.
Unhealthy lifestyles such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can also cause irritable male syndrome (IMS).
