Lower Free T with Higher Total, Few other issues

[steve-wv]

Got labs back yesterday

Total Test 811 Range 264-916
Free T 10.0 Range 6.8-21.5
SHBG 45.9 Range 16.5- 55.9
DHEA 151.1 Range 71.6-375.4
Estradiol Sens 26.8 Range 8.0-35.0
Ferritin 21 Range 30-400
TSH 1.830 Range 0.450-4.500

In the past my free T has been a lot higher with a lower T total, SHBG runs consistent at this level, do you think the 10.0 is sufficient with my total being where it is? What other factors play a part in the Free T ? How or should I try to increase it? Do not take an AI. No other meds.

Also my DHEA is on a pretty rapid decline since starting TRT 1.5 yrs. ago . Pre TRT was 231. Time to start supplementing?

I feel average. Libido and erections not anywhere near they used to be. A lot of fatigue periodically thru the day. Brain fog. Touch of depression here and there. Tested positive for antinuclear antibodies, maybe RA or Lupus, fibromyalgia or nothing. Tingling and hands and feet and spine at times. Joint pain. Sharp pain in trap area? I go today for follow up with PCP on that. Please keep in mind that I took an SSRI for 15 yrs. and since I quit 3 yrs. ago my body has been jacked. Just looking for a little input on where to go. Gonna try to have the following tests to run- complete thyroid panel, 4 tube salivary for adrenal/cortisol issues, lymes. Can't seem to lose weight


I am 46, 6'0", 230 lbs. ,diet fair to good. Any input would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[Gman86]

I have the same exact SHBG as you. I would bump up your testosterone a little to try and get it to between 1000-1200. That will bring your free test right where you want it. I also have the exact same ferritin level, and after doing a ton of research, I figured out that our ferritin level is extremely low, and could cause so many problems it's impossible to list them all. I would try working on your iron levels as well. Ferritin should be between 50-100. Possibly even a little higher. But shooting for a ferritin of 70 should be nice and safe and effective.

 

[CoastWatcher]

I've been ANA positive for nearly 30 years and have no defined diagnosis or symptoms suggesting one. Don't get ahead of yourself, as I did so long ago, and think you're dealing with more than may actually be the case.

 

[Vince Carter]

I have the same exact SHBG as you. I would bump up your testosterone a little to try and get it to between 1000-1200. That will bring your free test right where you want it.

I agree with Gman86