DHEA Hormone: Role, Testing, Levels, and Health Impact

What Is DHEA?

DHEA stands for dehydroepiandrosterone. It’s a natural hormone your body makes, mostly in the adrenal glands. These small glands sit above your kidneys and are key to producing several important hormones.

DHEA works as a precursor, or a starting material, for sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. This means your body turns DHEA into the hormones that influence puberty, energy levels, mood, skin health, muscle strength, and sexual function.

DHEA levels peak in your early adult years and begin to drop gradually with age. Some researchers believe this decline may be linked to aging-related health issues.

Doctors use DHEA testing to check for hormone problems or track adrenal gland function. It can also help identify causes of symptoms like tiredness, fertility problems, or irregular menstrual cycles.

When Is DHEA Testing Recommended?

Doctors may recommend a DHEA test when they need more information about a person’s hormone balance or adrenal function.

Common reasons include:

• Signs of hormone imbalance: When someone has unusual hair growth, acne, or irregular periods.
• Suspected adrenal disorders: Like adrenal tumors or adrenal gland overactivity.
• Evaluation of early puberty: Especially if a child is developing earlier than expected.
• Fertility issues: DHEA levels may be checked during evaluation for reproductive health.
• Monitoring age-related changes: Some health plans use it to track hormone changes with aging.
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness: To check if low hormone levels might be the cause.

How Is DHEA Testing Conducted?

DHEA levels are most often measured through a blood test. The test is simple and quick. A healthcare professional draws a small amount of blood, usually from a vein in your arm.

In some cases, doctors may use tests that include DHEA as part of a broader hormone panel. These are often used when symptoms suggest a possible hormone imbalance or adrenal issue.

Note: Testing for DHEA can be less common than for DHEA-S, but it may still be requested in special cases where doctors want a more complete view of hormone activity.

Do You Need to Prepare?

In most cases, no special preparation is needed. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. In some cases, they may ask you to:

• Avoid certain supplements before the test.
• Schedule testing in the morning, when hormone levels are more stable.

What Are the Normal DHEA Levels?

DHEA-S levels vary by age and sex. They tend to be:

• Higher in young adults
• Lower in older adults
• Slightly different for males and females

Here are typical reference ranges:

Note: The units of measurement and the normal ranges can differ depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used.

What Do Abnormal Levels Mean?

Abnormal DHEA levels may point to an issue with hormone production, adrenal gland function, or overall health.

DHEA High Levels

High DHEA levels are often linked to hormone overproduction. This can happen for several reasons.

Common causes include:

• Adrenal gland disorders: Such as adrenal tumors or hyperplasia (excess tissue growth), which can lead to high hormone output.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS often have elevated androgens, including DHEA.
• Early puberty: Children with high DHEA might enter puberty too soon.
• Stress or chronic illness: Some forms of stress or long-term illness can affect adrenal function.
• Supplement overuse: Taking DHEA supplements without medical supervision can raise levels too high.

To manage high DHEA levels:

• Avoid taking DHEA supplements unless advised by a doctor.
• Follow up with a hormone specialist to explore possible adrenal or ovarian conditions.
• Keep a record of symptoms to track any changes or patterns.
• Discuss further testing with your doctor, including imaging studies or hormone panels.

DHEA Low Levels

Low DHEA levels are common as you age, but in some cases, they may signal a deeper issue.

Common causes include:

• Adrenal insufficiency: When the adrenal glands don't make enough hormones.
• Pituitary gland problems: The pituitary controls hormone signals, so damage or disease can lower DHEA.
• Long-term stress: Chronic stress can wear down adrenal function.
• Aging: A natural decline happens over time, especially after age 30.
• Autoimmune or chronic conditions: Certain health problems may lead to lower hormone production.

To support low DHEA levels:

• Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and get tested regularly.
• Manage stress through sleep, exercise, or mindfulness.
• Focus on a balanced lifestyle with healthy food, physical activity, and rest.
• Ask about possible underlying conditions that could affect your hormones.

Which Specialist Should You Consult?

If your DHEA levels are too high or too low, the best step is to see a specialist who understands hormone health.

• Endocrinologist: This is the main type of doctor who treats hormone-related conditions. They can evaluate your symptoms, order tests, and create a plan to manage your hormone balance.
• Gynecologist or Urologist: In some cases, depending on symptoms like fertility or sexual health issues, you may be referred to one of these specialists.

Always start with your primary care provider, who can guide you to the right next step.