What is Irritable Male Syndrome?

Christie Saju, Counselling Psychologist at Lissun, explained that IMS is not medically recognized yet, although it could be an issue of irregularities in testosterone levels.

Dr Gorav Gupta, Psychiatrist, Emoneeds, said that these fluctuations, primarily in testosterone levels, have a notable impact on a man’s emotional and physical state. “The manifestations of IMS vary widely from person to person, making diagnosis sometimes difficult,” he noted.

“As men grow older, an imbalance of testosterone is seen, and that could lead to this condition,” Saju said, which Billakanti agreed with, adding that “hormonal imbalances can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to mood disturbances and other symptoms.

Several lifestyle problems, a lack of work-life balance, and a lack of proper management of stress could also be resulting in this phenomenon. Other potential factors that may contribute to IMS include stress, lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise, and psychological factors such as relationship issues or work-related stress.

IMS may result in difficulties with focus, concentration, and memory retention. (Pic source: Freepik)

What are the signs and symptoms of Irritable Male Syndrome?

The signs and symptoms of Irritable Male Syndrome (IMS) can vary from person to person, but some common manifestations, according to experts, include:

1. Mood swings: Men with IMS may experience rapid and intense changes in mood, ranging from irritability and anger to sadness and depression.
2. Increased irritability: IMS can lead to heightened levels of irritability and sensitivity, causing individuals to become easily frustrated or angered by small things.
3. Fatigue: IMS may cause feelings of persistent tiredness and lethargy, even with sufficient sleep and rest.
4. Decreased libido: Men with IMS might notice a decline in their sexual desire and overall interest in sexual activities.
5. Social withdrawal: IMS can contribute to a decreased desire for social interaction, leading affected individuals to isolate themselves from others.
6. Poor concentration and memory: IMS may result in difficulties with focus, concentration, and memory retention.

How can you diagnose Irritable Male Syndrome?

Diagnosing Irritable Male Syndrome (IMS) can be challenging because there is no specific medical test or diagnostic criteria for this condition. However, the diagnosis, according to the doctors we talked to, usually involves the following steps:

1. Evaluation of symptoms: detailed information about the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and any underlying conditions that could contribute to their symptoms.
2. Physical examination: A physical examination may be conducted to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms and to assess general health.
3. Hormone testing: In some cases, hormone levels, particularly testosterone, may be measured through blood tests. However, it’s important to note that hormone levels can vary throughout the day, so testing may not always provide a definitive diagnosis.
4. Psychological assessment: Psychological assessment to evaluate mental health and identify any underlying psychological factors that could be contributing to the symptoms.

Open and honest communication with loved ones is equally crucial, fostering empathy and support.

Can Irritable Male Syndrome be treated or managed?

Currently, there is limited research on specific treatments for Irritable Male Syndrome (IMS), said Dr Billakanti. However, there are some general strategies that may help in alleviating the symptoms, according to Drs Billakanti, Saju, Gupta, which are as follows:

1. Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate rest, stress reduction techniques (such as meditation or yoga), and maintaining a supportive social network.

2. Counselling or therapy: Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in managing mood swings, irritability, and other emotional symptoms associated with IMS. It can also help address any underlying psychological factors contributing to the condition.

3. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): In some cases, if low testosterone levels are identified through blood tests, a healthcare professional may recommend hormone replacement therapy. HRT involves the administration of testosterone to restore hormonal balance. However, the decision to pursue HRT should be made in consultation with a DOCTOR, considering potential risks and benefits.

4. Symptom management: Addressing specific symptoms may involve strategies such as stress management techniques, relaxation exercises, engaging in pleasurable activities, and maintaining a healthy sleep routine.

Open and honest communication with loved ones is equally crucial, fostering empathy and support. It’s imperative to recognize that seeking help for IMS is a courageous step towards achieving emotional balance and well-being, and one need not face this condition in isolation.

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