POIS-Symptoms
The symptoms that occur in men after ejaculation are varied. They range from classic flu or cold symptoms to cognitive impairment, mood swings, anxiety and depression. The symptoms sometimes occur immediately after ejaculation, but can also be delayed. For example, many sufferers report the immediate onset of flu symptoms and exhaustion, whereas brain fog, depression or anxiety may not set in until the following days. It is important to note that not all men suffer from all symptoms, but that each person affected has their own clinical picture in terms of the type, duration and intensity of symptoms. Likewise, the course of the disease can vary greatly from mild to severe.
Seven Symptom Clusters according to Waldinger
In a 2016 study, the Dutch sexologist Waldinger distinguishes between seven symptom clusters from which those affected can suffer. 1
Cluster 1 – General Symptoms
Extreme tiredness, exhaustion, palpitations, difficulty finding words, speech disorders (dysarthria), difficulty concentrating,
Cluster 2 – Flu Symptoms
General feeling of illness, flu-like condition, fever, internal heat, heavy sweating, severe chills, shivering.
Cluster 3 – Head
Headache/migraine, foggy feeling in the head (brain fog), heavy feeling in the head.
Cluster 4 – Eyes
Burning/red eyes, distorted vision, watery/irritated/itchy eyes, painful eyes.
Cluster 5 – Nose
Stuffy nose, runny nose, frequent sneezing.
Cluster 6 – Throat
Bad taste in mouth, dry mouth, scratchy throat, dry cough, hoarseness.
Cluster 7 -Muscles
Muscle pain in the back and/or neck, muscle weakness, aching muscles, heavy legs, muscle stiffness.