Low Dhea: Causes and Symptoms

Dhea is one of the naturally occurring hormones in the body. Dhea is used by the body to form male and female sex hormones (estrogens and androgens). Dhea or dehydroepiandrosterone, is one of the most essential hormones required for the proper functioning of the body. Dhea levels are low in people suffering from type 2 diabetes, anorexia and AIDS. Low Dhea is also an indication of aging.

Symptoms of Low Dhea

Overwhelming fatigue is the most common symptom of low Dhea. Decrease in stamina and alertness is often observed in people afflicted with the shortage of this hormone. A lowered libido is especially observed in women. The main symptoms of Dhea deficiency are listed below:

• Depression
• Less muscle and bone mass
• Pain in the joints
• Lower sex drive
• Less hair in underarms
• Dry skin and eyes
• Poor memory
• Difficulty in losing weight

Low levels of Dhea in the body has also been associated with a weakened immune system. As a result the person becomes susceptible to various infections and he may frequently fall sick. In other words, diminishing Dhea levels open the door to bacteria, viruses and other microbes. Patients with low Dhea also complain of sleep disorders. The Dhea hormone is also made in the neurons of the brain. Although it is produced in small amounts in the brain, a decline in Dhea output may lower the thinking ability.

Causes of Low Dhea

Dhea levels decrease with age. Dhea levels in the body peak when a person is in his 20's. After 30, they begin to decrease. By the time a person reaches 40, his body manufactures around half of the hormone Dhea as it used to. By 65, Dhea production decreases to 10-20 percent of the optimum. By 80, the body produces less than 5 percent of the optimum.

Diagnosis for Low Dhea

Doctors may perform blood, saliva or urine tests to determine whether the person has low Dhea levels.

Treatment for Low Dhea

Although Dhea is produced naturally in the body, Dhea supplements can be manufactured in a laboratory using a substance known as diosgenin, which is found in wild yam and
soyabean. People with low Dhea are advised to take Dhea supplements that are available at various drug stores. Dhea can be purchased as tablets, capsules and injections and the general dosage varies from 20-200 milligrams daily. Before taking Dhea supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor as such supplements may have side effects. Increasing only the Dhea levels is not the solution, as this may cause hormonal imbalance. It is better to evaluate the level of other hormones in the body (estrogens and androgens) to ensure everything remains in balance. Raising Dhea may increase energy, improve mood and promote deeper sleep.

Clinical studies have examined the effect of Dhea supplements on depression. Studies revealed that Dhea improves the symptoms of depression temporarily. More research is required before Dhea is recommended for depression as its long term effects are not known. Doctor suggest, that a proper diet along with exercise, is essential to increase Dhea levels in the blood.