Heading to the docs (UK) this week and could use some advice please...

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Hi all,

I would appreciate some help and advice please as I plan on going back to my GP

with a list of symptoms and as much information as possible to get new tests

done and try to get a referral to an endo.

I suspected I might have low test problems based on near non-existant libido,

fat retention and an inability to gain muscle for most of my post teen years

(I'm 36). Also I've had anxiety problems for 10 years now. I should also mention

that I've been on ADs (Prozac or Effexor) for 8 years. 6 months ago I stopped

taking them.

I had some tests done 2 years ago:

12/6/08:-

Serum Test 6.5nmol/L (8-27)

Serum TSH 1.6mu/L (0.3-5.5)

30/6/08:-

Serum cholesterol 4.2mmol/L (this was 5.9 a few years prior)

Serum cortisol 461nmol/L (140-690)

Serum LH 1.0u/L (1.5-18.1)

Serum FSH 3.5u/L (1.4-18.1)

22/7/08:-

Serum LH 1.3u/L (1.5-18.1)

Serum Test 8.1nmol/L (8-27)

Serum FSH 4.2u/L (1.4-18.1)

From this I was told 'There was nothing there that could be causing or

contributing to my anxiety. The low readings were probably caused by my

anxiety/depression. The anxiety/depression should be treated as primary.

My symptoms are (Not in any particular order):

Anxiety - my flight or fight response seems to be on a hair trigger. Things that

used to only make me nervous/alert now seem to cause a cascade of adrenaline

resulting in heightened anxiety/shaking etc (Not panic tho). I can't seem to

rationalise my fear. It is disproportionate to the situation.

Emotional - I seem extremely over sensative, I fill up watching TV programs for

eg.

Irritable/arguementative - minor irritations often cause an excessive amount of

anger/frustration and usually an outburst.

Brain fog - Most days I can't hold a conversation. By the time I've thought of

something to say the moment has passed. I also go into 'standby' during

meetings/presentations etc.

Poor focus/concentration - I'm always drifting.

Very slow mental & physical reaction times and clumsyness.

Fat retention - in spite of 8hrs of exercise per week I can't shift fat but lose

muscle.

I have alot of body hair though!?

Poor libido - no interest in sex. I don't have ED although it is not as firm as

it used to be.

There may be more symptoms but can't think due to brain fog!

What tests should I ask for?

Is Serum test the same as total test?

Are there any sources which give age specific reference ranges?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Mark.