DHEA Deficiency

Dehydroepiandrosterone, abbreviated as DHEA, is a steroid hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, brain and the male gonads. The levels of sex hormones, namely, progesterone, estrogen and testosterone are directly influenced by DHEA. Gradual declining of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels with increased age is a natural process. Nevertheless, some adults have less than normal amounts of this hormone, resulting in a medical condition, called DHEA deficiency.

DHEA Deficiency Causes

A neurosteroid by action, DHEA plays a crucial role in slowing down the aging process and also, in reducing disease development. This hormone is found to regulate the production of about 18 other hormones, of which stress hormones and sex hormones are some of them. The ideal DHEA level in male is 750-1250 nanograms per deciliter of blood, while it is 550-980 nanograms per deciliter in female. The amount of DHEA is measured to be highest in the morning time, and its level decreases after a flight journey.

As far as causes of DHEA deficiency are concerned, they are associated with almost all types of health problems, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, depression, coronary, artery disease, diabetes, hypertension, etc. Obesity, low thyroid synthesis and stressful conditions are known triggering factors for dehydroepiandrosterone deficiency. It is claimed that increased blood sugar and insulin cause DHEA excretion during urination. Also, consuming a diet with too much of animal fat is linked with lowered levels of DHEA hormone.

DHEA Deficiency Symptoms

As per studies conducted in the University of Maryland Medical Center, low DHEA and associated symptoms are common in people, who are in the age group 60-70 years. By this time, the amount of DHEA hormone drops down by about 80 percent of the normal level. In addition to elderly people, adults may exhibit deficiency signs due to underlying medical problems. The probable symptoms of DHEA deficiency include the following.

• Dryness of hair
• Dryness of skin
• Dryness of eyes
• Increased sensitivity to noise
• Fattening of belly
• Reduced muscle mass
• Reduced bone density
• Loss of hair from scalp
• Less hair under the arm
• Less hair in the pubic area
• Low libido
• Increased fatigue
• Anxiety
• Depression

Regarding DHEA deficiency in women, the patients usually have less fatty tissue in the pubic region (or flat mound of venus); while healthy women have padded mound of venus. People who manifest suspected symptoms of low DHEA levels should get medical attention at the earliest possible date. If left untreated, the risk factors for this hormone deficiency are cardiovascular problems, osteoporosis, breast cancer and disturbance in the mental state.

DHEA Deficiency Treatment

For diagnosis of DHEA deficiency, the doctor may consider laboratory testing for DHEAS (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) level in the bloodstream, which is the sulfated form of normal DHEA. The reasons for monitoring DHEAS are it is found in higher amounts in the blood and also, its level remains unchanged throughout the day. In case of DHEA testing, deficiency is confirmed, if the hormone readings are below 180 nanograms per deciliter in male and 130 nanograms per deciliter in female.

After confirmation of the same, the doctor may prescribe DHEA supplement in adequate dose for a specific duration, with an aim to increase this hormone level. Even though DHEA supplements are available without prescription, it is not recommend to self administer them. Similar to other steroid drugs, there are dangers of DHEA supplement that should not be neglected. Some of the reported DHEA side effects are acne outbreaks, high blood pressure, increased body hair growth, irregular menstruation and at times, cancer.

In addition to administering supplements, there are some effective ways concerning how to increase DHEA levels naturally. Effective self care tips for minimizing the risk of DHEA deficiency are consuming low calorie diet, limiting intake of animal fats, regular exercise, proper rest, getting sound sleep and most importantly, stress management. With such healthy lifestyle habits, the levels of DHEA will be increased significantly.