Recent research revealed that feeling irritated, tired and having low sex drive could be the signs of the ''Manopause'' in men. Researchers found that men could have ''male menopause''. In terms of medical science it is referred to as andropause - which implies the decline in the sex hormones (androgens) of men - namely testosterone

A previous study revealed that as many as one in five males over the age of 65 could be experiencing symptoms of this condition, which include low libido, irritability, tiredness, weight gain, sweating, aches and pains.

According to Dr Malcolm Carruthers of the Centre for Men's Health, some men become testosterone-resistant in their late 50s, meaning that despite normal levels of the hormone, the body is no longer able to respond to it in the same way.

In men there is no dramatic decline in testosterone but rather a natural, gradual reduction with age - about 0.5 per cent a year. Doctors believe that even marriage problems, changes in social status, job dissatisfaction, lack of exercise and the long-term effects of alcohol and smoking can, in the middle age, result in similar symptoms to the andropause.

He added, "The symptoms are caused by the body becoming resistant to the effects of testosterone. It's easily treated by giving more of the hormone, usually in the form of a gel or cream that can be rubbed into the shoulders or abdomen daily."

Professor John McKinlay of the New England Research Institute said those experiencing the symptoms should increase physical activity and "go on a diet" rather than taking pills.