What is Irritable Male Syndrome?

Irritable male syndrome (IMS) is the result of low testosterone levels, which can be brought on by old age, stress, an unhealthy diet, and certain medications and illnesses. Often referred to as male menopause or andropause, IMS has very similar symptoms to female menopause, including a lowered libido, hot flashes, and emotional issues. Treatment for IMS can include testosterone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes.

A man’s testosterone levels change both throughout the day and throughout his lifetime. While testosterone production can remain normal well into late life, it gradually begins to decrease between the ages of 35 and 45. For some men, the reduction of this hormone happens so slowly that they experience no symptoms. For others, the change is drastic enough to cause noticeable changes in behavior and overall well being, resulting in irritable male syndrome.

Factors such as high amounts of stress and an unhealthy diet can also cause irritable male syndrome, no matter what age a man is. Stress, along with foods such as refined starches, fatty meats, a lack of vegetables and large amounts of alcohol in the diet, can all limit testosterone production. Medications such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, and drugs used to treat incontinence, hypertension, HIV/AIDS, and other immune disorders may reduce testosterone production and also cause irritable male syndrome.

The most common symptoms of this disorder include excessive anger, mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. It is also typical for men to avoid loved ones, especially a spouse, and limit social interactions more than usual. Physical symptoms such as pain in the lower back, frequent headaches, and even hot flashes, a common part of female menopause, can also be present. Since testosterone usually decreases gradually, these symptoms may not appear overnight; in some cases, they may take several years to fully develop. Men who are more sensitive to testosterone fluctuations may experience a form of irritable male syndrome known as male PMS in which symptoms are more pronounced at certain times of the day or year.

Treatment for irritable male syndrome varies. For example, the use of testosterone replacement therapy can be controversial. This type of treatment may not work for many individuals and can increase the risk of prostate cancer significantly. Therefore, lifestyle changes are typically tried before hormone therapy.

Eating a healthy diet is one of the most recommended ways to boost testosterone levels. Foods such as whole grains, lean meats, and vegetables have been shown to increase production and reduce the frequency of dips in testosterone levels during the day, thereby reducing or eliminating the symptoms of this syndrome. Exercising regularly and limiting alcohol intake can also help combat irritable male syndrome.