His work was highly stressful, but stress alone could not explain the symptoms that emerged over the next couple of years, including night sweats, hot flushes, memory loss, irrational anger and frustration, and waning libido. Frankly, he was terrified. My relationships were suffering. But all the tests were negative. The doctor wasn't interested after that. He said I was just getting old, but I was still in my forties.
I was depressed and very, very ratty. According to Dr Petty, thousands of men in the UK could be approaching GPs with symptoms associated with low testosterone, and being told that it's down to their age, or the everyday maladies of modern life. Some are offered antidepressants, but many are just told to "play more golf and have less stress".
To some doctors, IMS sounds a bit like that old excuse for male misbehaviour, the mid-life crisis. Certainly, testosterone levels decline gradually with age, and there is the potential effect of stress and alcohol.
On the other hand, symptoms like moodiness, anger and tiredness are very subjective, and things like marital disharmony or stress at work can produce them. But I think more research is needed. Dr Petty believes that by traditional measures, GPs indeed can't find anything wrong. Both Reg and Robert had testosterone levels at the low end of a normal spectrum. What that spectrum fails to take into account, however, is the effect of sex-hormone binding globulin SHBG , a substance that neutralises testosterone and is produced in greater quantities in times of stress.
When he eventually saw a specialist, Reg was told that 80 per cent of the testosterone in his body was being "knocked out" by SHBG. Both men sought independent advice, were found to be deficient in "free" testosterone, and ended up on Testosterone Replacement Therapy TRT. Reg says it "saved my life".
Robert says it made "an incredible difference". But worries about testosterone supplements could be the very reason many doctors are unwilling to explore the possibility of hormone imbalance with their patients.
Despite some recent evidence to the contrary, many doctors and organisations - including the Prostate Cancer Charity - are yet to be convinced that no link exists between TRT and prostate cancer. Learn more about how MS can cause mood swings here.
Hormonal shifts can lead to significant changes in mood. Females tend to be more prone to symptoms of hormonal changes than males, particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. PMS causes many symptoms just before the onset of a menstrual period. These include:. It often co-occurs with depression or anxiety. Symptoms include extreme changes in mood, persistent irritability or anger , and depression or anxiety.
It also causes physical symptoms that are similar to those of PMS. Hormonal changes in pregnancy can cause sudden shifts in mood, as well as feelings of anxiety and vulnerability. These mood changes may be more apparent during the first trimester and level off once the body has adapted to fluctuating hormone levels. However, some women will experience mood swings throughout their pregnancy. It typically happens to women in North America between the ages of 40 and 58, but the average age is Other symptoms include hot flashes, sleep problems, and loss of libido.
However, if severe or persistent mood swings occur, they can indicate an underlying condition that may benefit from treatment. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Options include:. If mood swings result from a mental health condition, therapy may help, especially if changes in mood impact everyday life or relationships. Therapy can help people:. Therapy can also help those with a chronic or terminal physical illness deal with their situation and better manage their emotions.
A doctor may prescribe medication to treat the symptoms of mental health conditions, such as depression or schizophrenia, which can contribute to mood swings.
These options include:. Treating physical conditions, such as a thyroid disorder, with medication may also reduce mood swings. Lifestyle changes, whether alone or in combination with other treatments, can improve mood. People may see benefits from doing one or more of the following:.
If mood swings occur as the result of an underlying mental or physical health issue, then treating the condition can help people manage their emotions. Mental health disorders typically respond to psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of all three. Sometimes, it may take time to find the best treatment plan to alleviate symptoms. Many of the techniques that help people manage their mood can also help prevent mood swings. Andropause is most directly caused by a decrease in testosterone.
It also factors in other male characteristics, such as muscle mass and body hair. Levels of testosterone tend to decline gradually in men starting in their 30s. Testosterone is associated with confidence, fitness, energy, and sex drive — all characteristics that may contribute to healthy relationships. So lower testosterone levels can affect some of the key areas that may influence how you relate to your partner. Having your testosterone checked is a good first step toward diagnosing any mood shifts that may be due to age-related hormone changes.
It can be done as part of a regular blood test that checks your cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and other markers. You may have to ask your doctor to include a check for testosterone level on the order for blood work. The level of testosterone in your blood can let your doctor learn your hormonal situation and provide possible clues to changes in your mood.
Your doctor may be able to tell you more based on a physical examination and a conversation about your symptoms. Other underlying conditions could also be responsible for your symptoms.
Diabetes , for instance, may be responsible for erectile dysfunction. A nighttime breathing disorder called obstructive sleep apnea may be sapping your energy and ability to focus. You should be honest with your partner about all of your symptoms, including ones like erectile dysfunction.
A mental health professional may also be helpful in identifying problems in your relationship. Again, the key is to be honest about your symptoms and concerns. If your irritable male syndrome is caused by a decrease in testosterone levels, one of the main treatment options is testosterone replacement therapy.
Regular injections of a synthetic version of the hormone can often help restore vitality and other characteristics affected by declining hormone levels. Learn more: Hormone replacement therapy for men ». Like any treatment, this therapy has potential side effects.
There is some concern that it may affect heart health. Some people find they become too aggressive and moody. If you work with your doctor and report any side effects or negative changes in mood, most problems can be managed or avoided. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding foods that are high in fat and added sugars can benefit anyone. Limit alcohol consumption and exercise all or most days of the week for at least 30 to 40 minutes. Mental health treatment is important if your relationship is affected by irritable male syndrome.
It may even help with unwanted changes in your personality.
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