I'm a 42yr old Canadian. I have been feeling symptomatic for more than a year now, and made a dr visit to discuss. A blood test was done for total T and PSA. Total T came in at 17.5 nmol/L and PSA was 0.7 (can't remember units, but it was nice and low). After insisting, I was granted another blood test for TSH (1.45 mIU/L), FSH (3.0 IU/L), LH (4.2 IU/L), Estradiol not sensitive test I don't think (61pmol/L -ref range was <162), bio avail Test (4.9 nmol/L -ref 3.6-11.2), SHBG (71.1 nmol/L -ref 10-70).
When these results were discussed, the doc explained that even though SHBG was elevated and bio available was lowish he cannot prescribe as long as total and bio available are anywhere in the range regardless of symptoms. A referral to an endocrinologist for a "second opinion" was suggested to appease me, however I think it could be many months before I get in to see them.
I am at the point that I just want to feel better. I have access to testosterone, hcg and if needed an AI, but the missing piece here is getting blood test requisitions for monitoring. I asked if I could just get a monthly order for blood work, but the secretary replied that further blood work should come from the endo if they order it.....but to let them know if my symptoms change or get worse in the meantime.
I have a mind to start my own protocol and recontact my GP and inform them about it and see if the request for blood work is received differently knowing I am on.
I don't have health insurance or benefits, so a script isn't a priority for me.
Thoughts/advice?
When these results were discussed, the doc explained that even though SHBG was elevated and bio available was lowish he cannot prescribe as long as total and bio available are anywhere in the range regardless of symptoms. A referral to an endocrinologist for a "second opinion" was suggested to appease me, however I think it could be many months before I get in to see them.
I am at the point that I just want to feel better. I have access to testosterone, hcg and if needed an AI, but the missing piece here is getting blood test requisitions for monitoring. I asked if I could just get a monthly order for blood work, but the secretary replied that further blood work should come from the endo if they order it.....but to let them know if my symptoms change or get worse in the meantime.
I have a mind to start my own protocol and recontact my GP and inform them about it and see if the request for blood work is received differently knowing I am on.
I don't have health insurance or benefits, so a script isn't a priority for me.
Thoughts/advice?
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