What makes older men grumpy

According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, up to 30 percent of men beyond the age of 75 have low testosterone levels. It's not always hormones or other physical health issues, though. Older-guy grumpiness can also be traced to major life changes like retirement that come with advancing years, Wyer says. Wyer's husband of 25 years, John, turned 60 this year and became very grumpy just after his birthday, she says.

I feel people in increasing years have a lot to offer. Being grumpy is just my way of getting through it and laughing at myself. Urban jogging may be making you dumber. Uncircumcised boys may face more urinary infections. IE 11 is not supported. Lincoln may have speculated that the spike in my crabby episodes was due to low testosterone a. Testosterone deficiency playing a central role in old-man grumpiness is accepted by many — but many more experts believe old-man irritability is the result of a combination of factors, some physiological, some psychological.

For instance, Dr. The author described the following scenario provided by a colleague of Dr. Anawalt to emphasize chronic health problems as perhaps being a bigger factor: an obese older man becomes irritable not because of low T — but because his beer gut is making his back hurt. Despite criticism from Dr. It can be administered via gels, intramuscular injections or topical skin patches. Testosterone replacement therapy TRT seems to be particularly popular with law enforcement types.

It can increase muscle mass, which can come in handy for police and correctional officers on the job. Personally, I have no desire to be tested and no interest in TRT. Depression and lower self-confidence can also be symptoms. It can lead to difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and reduced energy. You may have a harder time losing weight and recovering after exercise. Hormonal changes in men can also cause a lower sex drive or erectile dysfunction. All of these symptoms can affect how you interact with your partner, often not in a positive way.

Moodiness and a change in libido can interfere with what was once a loving relationship. Other symptoms, like poor sleep, can affect many aspects of your overall health. Your physical health and mood may worsen over time. Recognizing these symptoms is an important step in addressing them.

Getting the support of your partner in managing changes in mood, energy, and other symptoms is the best approach. 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.