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Endocrinology

Expert answers from Endocrinology physicians on health concerns and treatment options

Questions & Answers

192 articles

Q

Why might someone with PCOS miss a period even if they are not pregnant?

People with PCOS might miss periods due to hormonal imbalances that affect the menstrual cycle.

Q

Why might women with PCOS experience irregular periods while breastfeeding?

Women with PCOS may experience irregular periods while breastfeeding due to the natural effects of breastfeeding on ovulation and fertility.

Q

Can a deficiency in vitamin d lead to hair loss?

Yes, a lack of vitamin D can lead to hair loss, as several studies have shown a link between low vitamin D levels and different types of hair loss.

Q

What could cause a low urine flow rate?

A low urine flow rate can be caused by blockages or problems with the bladder or urethra, especially in older adults.

Q

When is it appropriate to seek treatment for low testosterone?

Ask for help if you have symptoms like very low energy, low drive, or mood changes along with lab tests that show low testosterone. A doctor will look at your signs and test results before suggesting treatment.

Q

What are the characteristic blood test abnormalities you would see with hypophosphatasia (HPP)?

Patients with hypophasphatasia (HPP) will have blood tests that show abnormally low alkaline phosphatase (ALP), increased levels of ALP breakdown products like pyrophosphates and increased levels of calcium in the blood.

Q

What happens if my alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels are low?

Low Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) levels can indicate various underlying conditions, ranging from relatively benign nutritional deficiencies to more serious genetic disorders like hypophosphatasia.

Q

Why are my feet hot? Could this hot sensation in the soles be due to diabetes?

Experiencing a hot sensation in the soles of your feet can be caused by various factors, and it may indeed be related to diabetes, particularly through a condition known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Understanding the potential causes is important for proper diagnosis and management.

Q

At what age does late-onset hypogonadism typically begin to present symptoms?

Late-onset hypogonadism usually shows symptoms in middle-aged and older men, often beginning around the age of 40.

Q

At what age might men start experiencing hot flashes due to hormonal changes?

Men might start experiencing hot flashes as early as their mid-50s, and these symptoms can become more noticeable with age. Men experiencing hot flashes should be evaluated by a doctor.

Q

At what age might testicles start shrinking due to hormonal changes or treatments like TRT?

Testicular shrinkage may occur gradually as part of the natural aging process, often starting around middle age (40s-50s), and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can sometimes cause shrinkage sooner because it lowers the body’s own hormone production.

Q

Can fatigue mimic the symptoms of depression, and how might low testosterone contribute to this?

Yes, fatigue can look like depression, and low testosterone may make this worse by affecting energy and mood.

Q

Can feeling depressed cause tiredness, and how might low testosterone be related to these symptoms?

Yes, feeling depressed can make you very tired, and low testosterone might also add to fatigue and mood changes.

Q

Can persistent tiredness lead to feelings of depression, and what role does testosterone play in this?

Feeling very tired all the time may make someone feel sad or depressed, and low or changing testosterone levels can add to these feelings.

Q

How can low testosterone affect motivation and performance at work?

Low testosterone can lower your energy and mood, which may decrease your motivation and work performance.

Q

How can low testosterone contribute to low concentration and cognitive issues?

Low testosterone may lead to problems with concentration and thinking, because the hormone helps the brain work properly.

Q

How can low testosterone levels impact concentration and motivation in adults?

Low testosterone can make it hard to focus and feel motivated because it affects brain chemicals that help us think clearly and feel good. Studies have shown that when testosterone levels are low, adults may experience problems with concentration and decreased drive.

Q

How can you determine if symptoms are due to fatigue, depression, or another underlying issue like low testosterone?

Doctors look at a person's history, feelings, and physical signs and use lab tests to decide if fatigue is from depression, low testosterone, or another cause. They ask questions, do physical exams, and sometimes check hormone levels to find out.

Q

How can you differentiate between fatigue and depression, and what role does testosterone play?

Fatigue is a tired feeling that can occur with many conditions, while depression is a mood disorder that not only brings tiredness but also sadness and loss of interest. Testosterone, a hormone found in higher levels in men, can affect mood, and low levels are sometimes linked with signs of depression rather than just simple fatigue.

Q

How common are hot flashes in men with low testosterone?

Hot flashes can occur in men with low testosterone, and while not every man experiences them, a noticeable portion may notice these symptoms, especially if the testosterone deficiency is significant or altered by treatments.

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