Sub optimal cortisol results, below range DHEA and phone appointment with GP this morning

[J972]

Good morning,

I posted yesterday about Regenerus test results (link below) and seveneleven kindly responded.

I’ve managed to secure a GP phone appointment this morning because I’m wracked with pain and inflammation and would like to arrange further tests for this (possible rheumatoid arthritis).

Since I’m going to be speaking to a doctor, does anyone have any suggestions with regards to whether/how I should broach the subject of my sub optimal cortisol results and way below range DHEA? I’m am currently not on HRT, for info.

Many thanks 🙏

healthunlocked.com/thyroidu...

[seveneleven]

You can always raise it, it's just that the best they can do is offer a morning serum cortisol test. So if they are happy to arrange bloods for ANA/inflammatory markers etc., they could always add cortisol, as long as the appointment is between 8-9am. I don't think it would tell you anything useful because your morning saliva levels are good, and GP could only really refer you to endocrinology with below-range bloods. And an endo wouldn't do anything about it, because they only usually treat adrenal insufficiency, not adrenal fatigue. So it's worth a try, but just be prepared that they may dismiss it. Worth knowing as well that joint pain/inflammation is a common thing with Hashi's and undermedicated hypo. So if arthritis investigations don't show up anything, that could be the cause. Good luck!

[J972 in reply to seveneleven]

Thanks very much for responding - once again!

The joint pain is beyond anything I’ve experienced and, worryingly, I’m fairly certain that there’s structural changes happening. Also, strong family history of RA.

Take care