Low levels of DHEA-S

[azimuthk]

Hi

How are you DHEA-S levels ? I'm asked regularly by my endocrinologist to do Cortisol and DHEA-S levels to see if I might be getting Addisons on top of AMN.

I always get DHEA-S at 126 but cortisol is ok. So for her all ok but I'm annoyed by my lowered levels which have been low but stable for at least one year.

Do you have any experience with this parameter ?

Thanks in advance for any info

[COwithAMN Administrator AMN EASIER Volunteer]

Hi Azimuth

I am not familiar with the DHEA-S test, but in the UK at least, the standard test for adrenal sufficiency is the Short Synacthen test. I have had it many times.

The Synacthen test requires two blood measurements. The first us when you arrive at the clinic. Then, they inject synacthen and this causes the adrenals to produce cortisol. The level of cortisol then measured in the blood compared with the initial sample is what is important.

It seems to me that this is probably more accurate that simply measuring what a random blood sample finds. Anyway, DHEA-S seems to measure a different chemical - adrenal hormone DHEA sulphate. I have no idea what the value of measuring that is but presumably cortisol is the key chemical we want to measure?

Maybe worth asking about the Short Synacthen test. It is certainly crucial to keep an eye on adrenal function.

All the best

Chris

[bluejadedwho]

DHEA Is the most abundant hormone in the human body. It is mostly produced in the adrenal glands. Doctors neglect to test for this, as you don’t need it to live. There are lots of studies that are showing now that supplementing with it, can increase mood, decrease fatigue, and improve a patient’s overall life when there is adrenal insufficiency. The DHEA-S Test, is the test used to check one’s levels.

[SongStream in reply to bluejadedwho]

My past endocrinologist had recommended that I take a DHEA supplement for the very same reasons (especially fatigue), although, I have discontinued long past so I cannot say if there was a change when you count all the other AMN symptoms we have to deal with.

[monkeybus]

I took DHEA supplements for six months or so. Like most things, it didn't make any difference to my symptoms.

Whether it affects long-term progression is a different matter entirely.

No study has been done.

4-Aminopyridine, Modafinil, Gabapentin. They are the only medicines that actually work for me.

I have been religiously taking Valproic Acid for ages to see if that has any long-term effects. Limited studies show it lowering VLCFA levels.

Worth a try, for me.

[azimuthk]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I see that the Synachten test is not easily available in my region I have to ask in my local Laboratory.

Due to my low DHEA my endocrinologist has sent my to andrologist but she only suggested taking tribulus terrestris and sildenafil even though my testosterone levels are ok. No

So none of my doctor are bothered by low DHEA.

I don't have any pains or spasms only gait. I am looking what could help me apart from excercises.