During their menstrual cycle, women often experience noticeable changes in mood and physiology. So, what about the “men’s red days”?
Understanding “Red Days” in Men
Men Also Have Red Days
Like women, men also undergo hormonal changes. Each day, a man’s testosterone levels peak in the morning and gradually decline by evening, with levels fluctuating even day by day. These hormonal fluctuations can lead to symptoms similar to those of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women, including depression, fatigue, and mood swings.
Psychotherapist Jed Diamond coined the term Male Irritability Syndrome (MIS) in his book of the same name to describe these hormonal fluctuations and associated symptoms. He believes that men also experience a hormonal cycle similar to that of women.
Dr. Janet Brito, a sex therapist, states: “The menstrual cycle in women and hormonal changes are a result of the natural reproductive cycle preparing for conception. Men’s testosterone levels can vary, and several factors influencing testosterone concentration can cause symptoms that resemble those of MIS.”
Men also experience hormonal cycles like women.
Factors that can affect hormone levels include:
- Medical conditions
- Lack of sleep
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Changes in diet or weight
- Age (men’s testosterone levels can start to decline as early as their 30s)
Signs of Men’s Red Days
The signs of MIS in men are relatively similar to the signs of PMS in women but do not follow any physiological pattern like the reproductive cycle in women. This means these symptoms do not occur regularly or predictably.
Signs of Male Irritability Syndrome (MIS) include:
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Heightened sensitivity
- Irritability
- Decreased libido
- Confusion or mental disorder
These MIS symptoms may stem from a deficiency in testosterone hormone. If these symptoms occur frequently, it is advisable to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Middle-aged men may experience these symptoms as natural testosterone levels begin to decline. This condition is commonly referred to as andropause, or male menopause.
If blood is found in the urine or stool of men, this is not a menstrual sign like in women but is often due to parasites or infections. Regardless of the condition, it is essential to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment plans as soon as possible.
How to Manage Men’s Red Days
Maintaining stable testosterone levels is the primary goal in managing this condition, and methods may include:
- Regular exercise
- Resting and adhering to a proper sleep schedule
- Reducing stress and avoiding overcommitting to work
- Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D
- Ensuring a balanced diet including proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates
If the signs of red days significantly affect health or daily life, you should consult a doctor for a check-up. In cases where the cause is testosterone deficiency, doctors may recommend testosterone replacement therapy.
Men’s red days do not cause as many changes as in women, but they can be a warning sign of declining testosterone levels. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet is crucial to keep this hormone under control!
