MAN-O-PAUSE- Is irritable male syndrome real

​Man-O-Pause: Is Irritable male syndrome real?

What is Irritable Male Syndrome (IMS)?^[1,2]​​

Are you feeling moody, irritated, grumpy, or tired? Are you experiencing low libido or emotional instability? 
You might be suffering from Irritable Male Syndrome, also referred to as "Andropause" or "Male Menopause," which is a concept that suggests a decline in male hormones, particularly testosterone, which can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms.

Identifying IMS:^[1,3]​

IMS can manifest in a variety of symptoms, both physical and emotional, which may include:

• ​Low libido
• ​Mood swings
• ​Irritability
• Fatigue
• Increased stress
• Difficulty concentrating
• Nervousness

Causes of Irritable Male Syndrome

The exact cause of IMS is not well understood, but it is believed to be linked to hormonal changes in men, primarily a decrease in testosterone levels. Other contributing factors may include ageing, stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and lifestyle choices.

​The diagnosis of IMS is complex and involves a thorough medical evaluation, including hormone tests, to rule out any other medical conditions with similar symptoms by a qualified healthcare provider.

What to do then?​

Men can reduce the risk and manage its symptoms effectively, but we must take an approach tailored to the individual:

• ​ ​Healthy lifestyle choices - balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep
  
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• Stress management: Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.


• ​ Seek medical advice: Consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation/diagnosis and guidance on potential treatments or therapies.


• ​ Bioidentical hormone therapy: To regulate hormonal imbalances, this should be done once you have consulted with a healthcare provider.

IMS is linked to hormonal fluctuations, mainly testosterone. Testosterone impacts mood, energy levels, and sexual function, and when it fluctuates, it can cause symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and decreased libido. These symptoms may overlap with other medical conditions, making diagnosis challenging.

Remember, you need not face this condition in isolation. Understanding & addressing IMS is a positive, courageous step towards achieving emotional balance and well-being towards happier and more fulfilling lives.

References​

1 https://bit.ly/3QoBCre

2 https://wb.md/3u0p69R

3 ​https://bit.ly/465jMiy