Grumpy old men could be the result of a low sex drive

Today may be International Men’s Day but many older males could be feeling grumpy and utter words to the effect of ‘not tonight darling’ because their sex drive has been zapped by an undiagnosed condition.

Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TDS) occurs when the body does not produce enough of the male hormone testosterone resulting in symptoms of irritability, a low sex drive, tiredness, hot flushes, inability to sleep, depression and loss of erections.

“If you find yourself living with a grumpy old man who has lost his lust for life, or think of yourself that way, there may be more to it than that, " said Dr Christian Jessen.

"TDS can be confusing as symptoms are not all specific to low testosterone so an accurate diagnosis is essential.”

TDS affects more than 700,000 men aged between 50 and 79 in the UK, but most men do not know that it’s a medical condition and do not want to admit a lack of desire in the bedroom department.

A recent survey has revealed almost half of British men (49 per cent) are more comfortable discussing financial matters, such as how to complete their tax return than have discussions about their tackle or loss of libido.

The research also found more than three quarters of men are likely to turn to their doctor for help if they suffer erectile dysfunction (77 per cent) , yet less than half (47 per cent) will seek advice if they experience low sex drive.

Some 30 per cent of men surveyed said they would feel less of a man if they found out they had TDS.

To help men get to grips with the issue of TDS, a short film has been created to coincide with November being Men’s Health Awareness Month.

The film features an older man trying to explain his ‘trouble with the old chap’ to another man in the pub.

It can also be viewed at the www.whatistds.com, which features information on how to check for TDS, speaking to your doctor and advice for loved ones about raising the issue with men they fear may have TDS.