Which male hormones do we measure?

Which male hormones do we measure?
Testosterone is the main testicular androgen and is a precursor to the highly potent dihydrotestosterone hormone. Low levels or levels that are too high of androgens are both hazardous. Both deficiency states and excessive amounts of hormones promote hardening of the blood vessels, depression, aggression, prostate problems, cognitive problems and an increase in insulin resistance. It is important for optimal health to monitor the levels.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) - is made from testosterone in certain tissues. The rate of its production is controlled by the level of free active progesterone. Excess DHT causes prostate enlargement and thinning of scalp hair.

Androstenedione- is a weak male hormone (androgen) and a precursor of both male & female hormones. Unmonitored intake in men can cause excessive female hormone production with minimal male hormone production. For that reason, androstenedione has few indications for replacement.

DHEA - is the precursor for both male and female hormones. Also, it is an anti-stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It must be in balance with cortisol production for optimal health. Unmonitored intake can easily alter the delicate balance between male to female hormones.

Progesterone - This hormone is important in both sexes. It is a natural calming agent to our nervous system. It also keeps in check excessive DHT production and counterbalances the effects of excessive estrone, one of the estrogen hormones. Unmonitored intake can lead to insulin resistance, depression and weight gain.

Estrone - is an estrogen that both sexes produce in the fat cells. The more fat, the more estrone which in turn itself promotes fat deposits. It is produced from androstenedione and excess of estrone can cause breast enlargement and contributes to prostate enlargement. In males, a certain low level of estrone is mandatory to balance the androgens.

Estradiol - is the most potent natural estrogen, present and important for both male and female health. Optimal cognitive function requires estradiol but at the proper level and ratio to testosterone.

FSH – stimulates and regulates spermatogenesis
LH – stimulates and regulates testosterone production

Evaluation of Middle-aged men:
Impaired libido
Erectile dysfunction
Baldness and/or extremity hair thinning
Fat accumulation around the waist
Msucle loss
Diabetes
Urinary symptoms: pain and/or frequency; urgency; interrupted stream
Change in sleeping habits
Less enthusiasm for life
Depression
Increase in bad cholesterol, decrease in good cholesterol
Your doctor tells you that you have osteoporosis
Parkinson's disease
Vascular disease or heart disease

Evaluation of Younger Men:
Impaired libido
Erectile dysfunction
Early baldness
Inability to lose weight
Anxiety
Diabetes
Breast enlargement