DHEA Lab Test

DHEA Levels: Do You Need to Take a Supplement? The dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) test checks how much DHEA-S is in the blood. The adrenal gland produces the hormone DHEA-S. It is a building block for androgens and estrogens. The test is generally done to check how well the adrenal glands are working and to look into conditions that might cause hormone production to be off. DHEA-S test, also known as the test DHEA sulfate, can help figure out what’s causing irregular periods, infertility, and a low libido. It is also used to find out if someone has a growth in their adrenal gland, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or polycystic ovary syndrome. People on long-term glucocorticoid medicine can also use the test to check how well their adrenal glands are working. It is an important test for people who think their hormones might be out of order. What is DHEA? The adrenal glands also produce dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the most abundant hormone found in the blood stream. Your adrenal glands and, to a lesser extent, your ovaries and testes produce the hormone known as DHEA. DHEA is changed into DHEA-S in your adrenal glands and liver. The body uses DHEA as the starting material for producing the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen. However, DHEA supplementation studies have shown that it only increases testosterone in women. The production of DHEA diminishes in most people after age 40. DHEA levels typically decrease with age in both men and women, highlighting its significance in hormone testing and the evaluation of conditions affecting adrenal function and hormonal balance. In people aged 70 years, DHEA levels will be approximately 30 percent lower than what they were at age 25. Low blood levels of DHEA have been associated with many degenerative conditions, making it a popular supplement for those undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments.   Understanding DHEA and Its Role in the Body DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of each kidney. These glands are responsible for producing most of the body’s DHEA, with smaller amounts being produced by the testicles in men and ovaries in women. DHEA plays a crucial role in the production of sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, which are essential for the development of male and female sex characteristics. As we age, DHEA levels naturally decline, with the highest levels typically occurring during puberty. This decline can lead to a range of symptoms, including decreased libido, fatigue, and weight gain. However, it’s important to note that DHEA supplements are not recommended as a way to prevent aging-related conditions, as there is no reliable evidence to support their effectiveness. While some people may seek out DHEA supplements to counteract these symptoms, it’s crucial to approach supplementation with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands DHEA plays a crucial role in the production of sex hormones DHEA levels naturally decline with age The Importance of DHEA Sulfate (DHEAS) DHEAS is the most abundant form of DHEA in the body, accounting for approximately 90% of the total DHEA present. Produced by the adrenal glands, DHEAS is converted into DHEA in the body. The DHEA sulfate test measures the levels of DHEAS in the blood, which can help diagnose adrenal disorders and evaluate adrenal function. DHEAS plays a crucial role in regulating the reproductive system. Abnormal levels can lead to a range of symptoms, including excess hair growth, male pattern baldness, and deepening of the voice in women. In men, high levels of DHEAS can cause early puberty, while low levels can lead to erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. In women, high levels of DHEAS can cause polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, and infertility. Low levels of DHEAS can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. The DHEA sulfate test is typically ordered by a healthcare provider if symptoms indicate an adrenal disorder or adrenal tumor. The test involves a blood sample, which may cause moderate pain, a prick or sting, and possibly some throbbing or bruising after the needle is inserted. The test is usually performed at a doctor’s office or another medical setting, and the results are typically available within a few business days. Normal blood levels of DHEAS can differ by sex and age, with typical normal ranges for females being 20-150 mcg/dL and for males being 30-450 mcg/dL. Abnormal levels of DHEAS can indicate a range of conditions, including adrenal gland disorders, pituitary gland disorders, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. In conclusion, DHEA and DHEAS play crucial roles in the body, and abnormal levels can lead to a range of symptoms and conditions. The DHEA sulfate test is an essential tool for diagnosing adrenal disorders and evaluating adrenal function. If you’re experiencing symptoms related to adrenal disorders, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. DHEAS is the most abundant form of DHEA in the body Who Can Benefit from Taking DHEA Supplements? Some controversial and non-conclusive studies have shown that people with immune deficiencies and fatigue may benefit from supplementation with this hormone. It is also believed to help correct some adrenal problems, such as changes in blood pressure, caused by conditions such as adrenal insufficiency. It is still available over-the-counter in the United States. Due to a recent congressional bill classifying it as a performance-enhancing steroid (despite the fact that no studies have demonstrated that it has such an effect), this might soon change. One study showed that women with the correct levels of DHEA can convert it into testosterone as their body needs it, while men do not benefit to the same degree. You need a blood test to know if you have low DHEA-S since most of the DHEA converts into this sulfated form. Common doses for women are 5 to 30 mg a day, while men tend to benefit from 25–100 mg per day (to bring low levels of DHEA-S to normal) DHEAS was the only hormone significantly negatively correlated to the prevalence of erectile dysfunction among 17 investigated hormones, including testosterone and estradiol, in the large and long-term Massachusetts Male Aging Study. In addition, a study done by Dr. Basar et al., which included 348 male patients, reported that DHEAS and free testosterone levels were significantly lower in men with sexual dysfunction. However, evidence of the positive effects of DHEA supplementation on improving sexual function in men is unconvincing, scanty, and conflicting. Only 4 placebo-controlled studies have been performed to investigate the effect of supplementing DHEA on improving libido in men. Unfortunately, the data from these studies did not show any difference in sexual desire in men. The limited effect of DHEA on male sexual function is not surprising. In fact, the specific DHEA contribution to the overall circulating testosterone level in men is marginal, if not negligible. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was done on male and female patients with low thyroid function (hypopituitary) who were given growth hormone (GH) along with 50 mg of DHEA. When DHEA was replaced in female patients, the dose of GH dropped by 14.6 +/- 20% while serum IGF-I stayed the same (P < 0.05). This was maintained for 12 months, and there was a significant fall in serum IGF-I two months after the withdrawal of DHEA. There was no change in the male group. Do not use DHEA supplements unless your blood levels of DHEA-S are low. If low, start at a low dose and get your DHEA-S tested again after a month. Men who use DHEA supplements may have problems with higher estrogen levels since this hormone can also be metabolized into estradiol. This could result in gynecomastia and water retention. If you start taking DHEA, have your blood levels checked to make sure they are not above normal. Additionally, individuals with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or prostate cancer, should consult with their doctor before taking a DHEA supplement. There are many claims about DHEA being an anti-aging and anti-cancer cure, but none of these claims have been substantiated with strong data. How Do You Know Your DHEA Blood Level with a DHEA Sulfate Test? The standard blood test to evaluate DHEA status is one that measures DHEA sulfate levels (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, or DHEA-S). DHEA-S is calculated in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) of blood. A DHEA-S blood test may be taken three to six weeks after initiating DHEA to help determine optimal dosing. DHEA testing may save you money if it shows you can take less DHEA to maintain youthful DHEA serum levels. Potential Benefits of DHEA Supplementation Low DHEA and Adrenal Insufficiency Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormone DHEA. In such cases, doctors may prescribe DHEA supplements to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. The National Collegiate Athletic Association has banned the supplement, but studies have shown that it may be useful in treating lupus and adrenal insufficiency (Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier). However, further research is still needed to determine its effectiveness in treating these conditions. DHEA and Depression DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) supplements have been studied for their potential to alleviate depressive symptoms. The test DHEA sulfate can help diagnose adrenal disorders that may contribute to depressive symptoms. Studies have found that DHEA-S levels are associated with depressive symptoms in women in the late reproductive years. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials showed that DHEA may be effective in treating depressive symptoms in various psychiatric and medical illnesses. However, further research is needed to fully understand the effects of DHEA on depression and its potential as a treatment option, making DHEA treatment a potential option for those struggling with depressive symptoms. DHEA in Elderly Men A DHEA supplement has been found to be beneficial for elderly men. Studies have shown that elevated serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels correlate with an increased risk for metabolic syndrome in elderly men. DHEA supplements can also produce small decreases in fat mass in elderly men, although more research is needed to confirm this finding. Additionally, taking DHEA supplements may also have an effect on body weight and fat burning, but the evidence is unclear. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any DHEA supplements, especially for elderly men with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications. DHEA supplements have been suggested to slow down the aging process by maintaining DHEA levels in the body. Although some small studies have reported positive anti-aging effects from the use of DHEA supplements, others have not shown any effect. According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, there is no conclusive evidence that DHEA supplements affect the aging process. DHEA is a precursor for the production of estrogens and androgens, and its production decreases with the aging process, which makes it a controversial topic among researchers regarding its use in postmenopausal women. DHEA and Bone Density A DHEA supplement has been studied for its potential to improve bone mineral density in older women. Studies have produced mixed results, but some suggest that DHEA may increase bone mineral density in the hip and thigh bones of females. This effect seems to increase with higher doses of the supplement. DHEA can be expressed via sex steroid receptors and androgen and estrogen receptors and plays a role in bone cell proliferation and differentiation. The activation of androgen receptors can stimulate bone cell growth, which may contribute to improvements in mineral density. DHEA and Bodybuilding DHEA often gets marketed as a “muscle builder” to men. As a muscle-building supplement in young, healthy men, DHEA is essentially worthless, and high intakes may in fact be counterproductive to gaining muscle as high doses also cause an increase in estrogen and the effects on testosterone are minimal. Studies have been conflicting in this area at best, and most “real world” users report no improvements in strength, muscle mass, etc. from using DHEA, with little evidence to support its effectiveness. As a supplement that can improve mood, libido, memory, and possibly alter body composition (i.e., increase muscle, improve bone density, and reduce body fat), DHEA appears to be an option to explore for women. Most of the research has been done in DHEA-deficient populations, but data and real-world experience suggest it's also beneficial to women who are not medically deficient in this hormone, particularly in improving sex drive. Although the benefits of this hormone to women come predominately from its conversion to testosterone, it also appears that some of the effects may be due to other mechanisms. DHEA Potential Interactions Yes, it is important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications or supplements when taking a DHEA supplement. DHEA can interact with several types of medications like blood thinners, insulin, and corticosteroids. It may also affect the effectiveness of certain herbal supplements, like ginkgo biloba and saw palmetto. People with liver problems should also avoid taking DHEA, as it is metabolized in the liver. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure there are no adverse effects or interactions with existing medications or supplements. How Long Does It Take for DHEA to Work? The length of time it takes to see results from taking a DHEA supplement can vary depending on multiple factors. Some people may notice an improvement in their symptoms within just a few days, while others may need to take the supplement for several weeks or even months before seeing any noticeable changes. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to determine the appropriate dosage and monitor any potential side effects. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that DHEA supplements are not appropriate for everyone and that those who are pregnant, nursing, or have certain medical conditions should avoid taking them. DHEA Dosage The recommended dosage for a DHEA supplement varies depending on age, gender, and health conditions. Generally, the recommended dosage for men is 50–100 mg per day, while women are advised to take 25–50 mg per day. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. Additionally, it is recommended to take DHEA supplements in the morning as the body naturally produces more DHEA during this time. It is also suggested to cycle DHEA use, taking it for three weeks and then pausing for one week before resuming. different individuals. Its role in supporting adrenal function, potentially aiding in conditions like adrenal insufficiency and depression, and influencing bone density and sexual health, offers hope for specific groups, especially postmenopausal women and the elderly. However, it's crucial to approach DHEA supplementation with caution and informed understanding. Men, particularly, may find limited benefits and should be wary of potential side effects like increased estrogen levels. Conclusion Before considering DHEA supplements, it's essential to get your DHEA-S levels tested. This is where DiscountedLabs.com can be an invaluable resource, offering affordable and convenient blood tests without the need for a doctor's visit in several U.S. states. Understanding your DHEA-S levels is the first step in determining whether supplementation is right for you. Remember, while DHEA has potential benefits, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consult with healthcare professionals, consider potential interactions with other medications or supplements, and monitor your body's response to supplementation. As we continue to explore the benefits and limitations of DHEA supplements, it's essential to make informed, health-focused decisions, aided by reliable testing and professional advice. Turn to DiscountedLabs.com for your testing requirements if you're thinking about taking DHEA supplements so that you can make informed health decisions.

Tired of being tired?: Get these fatigue lab tests to find out why Getting fatigued is a normal part of life, but certain people feel profound tiredness all the times. Scientists agree that during the evening when it’s time to go to bed, it is normal to feel tired and sleepy, but it’s not normal if you feel that way in the morning after 8 hours of sleep. Chronic fatigue can be a real problem, and it can stay in the way of living a productive and happy life. Other symptoms may be present along with this problem, and if it persists for an extended period of time, the person may develop more serious health conditions. Table of Contents Tired of being tired?: Get these fatigue lab tests to find out why How do I know I’m chronically fatigued?   How does a complete fatigue panel help me? What are the advantages of getting a fatigue lab test panel? How does this panel diagnose chronic fatigue? Thyroid tests Free T4 Test – this type of test looks at a hormone in the body called thyroxine (T4). Thyroxine is then converted to T3, a hormone that regulates body temperature, helps in producing energy, and monitors heart rate. Total and Free Testosterone Tests Anemia Tests   Glucose Tests   The importance of insulin in the body High sugar levels in the blood can cause multiple health problems Adrenal Glands Tests Immune system tests Iron tests FAQ Conclusion How do I know I’m chronically fatigued? Again, being tired all the time and feeling like your battery is in “low-power” mode constantly goes beyond a usual headache, sore muscles, or a temporary lack of concentration. You might be chronically fatigued if: · You start to develop muscle and joint pains · You feel tired even after a good night’s sleep · You lack energy, motivation, and you’d rather put your head on a pillow instead of doing something important · You have periodic mood swings · You have tried a plethora of energy drinks and drank multiple cups of coffee to no avail · You have mental fog most of the times · You feel exhausted, and even small physical efforts are difficult for you If you have one or more severe symptoms above, it is possible that you might be fatigued. This can happen because of a variety of reasons. For example, there might be hormonal deficiencies in your system which can render one unable to recover properly. The human body is extremely complex, and your fatigue problem might be difficult to spot at first. For example, some people might have low testosterone levels; others might encounter adrenal deficiencies or thyroid dysfunction. How does a complete fatigue panel help me? A complete fatigue panel is designed to analyze multiple hormones in the body to determine in which ones a person might be deficient. This can be done by drawing blood and saliva sample and sending them to a lab for complete analysis.   What are the advantages of getting a fatigue lab test panel? There are numerous benefits of getting a fatigue panel such as: · All-in-one testing procedure – the panel monitors the function of multiple organs and hormones such as the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, blood glucose, total and free testosterone, vitamin deficiencies, etc., so you don’t have to do these tests separately · Order online and get results by email – once you get the panel, you go to a lab to offer a blood sample and get the results back by email, usually in just a few business days · Get a free consultation with a physician – not everyone is trained to analyze blood results, so once you get those, you will visit a local physician who will take a look at the results and provide professional guidance and counsel based on these results · 100% confidential and secure – your results are not shared with anyone and ordering a fatigue panel online is completely safe and secure   How does this panel diagnose chronic fatigue? As mentioned earlier, a complete fatigue panel runs multiple tests to determine vitamin or hormone deficiencies in one’s body. Let’s take a closer look at these tests and learn more about them.   Thyroid tests The thyroid gland is situated in the neck, responsible forregulating countless hormones and substances in the body. If it doesn’t function correctly, the person in question might feel fatigued and lack motivation. Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland gets “lazy,” meaning it doesn’t produce the required amount of hormones for the body to function correctly. Peoplewith hypothyroidism might feel tired most of the time, which is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as weight changes, loss of appetite, and poor concentration. In some cases, people might also experience other symptoms such as hair loss (particularly the eyebrows), brittle nails, and a great sensitivity to cold temperatures. The fatigue panel you order will analyze the function of the thyroid and run tests such as TSH, Free T3, and Free T4: Free T4 Test – this type of test looks at a hormone in the body called thyroxine (T4). Thyroxine is then converted to T3, a hormone that regulates body temperature, helps in producing energy, and monitors heart rate. Peoplewith hypothyroidism might experience a decreased production of thyroxine, leading to excessive fatigue, lack of motivation, and other symptoms. TSH test – TSH stands for thyroid stimulating hormone, a type of hormone produced by the pituitary gland. The fatigue panel looks at the levels of TSH in your bloodstream to determine if you have too much or too little TSH. This hormone is essential because as its name implies, it stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4 and T3 hormones. If the TSH levels are too high, the thyroid gland might work overtime, leading to thyroid dysfunction and fatigue. Free T3 Test – We talked about the T3 hormone earlier in the “Free T4 Test,” and learned that the T3 gets converted from T4. This hormone (T3) is also responsible for regulating the heart rate, body temperature, and other essential body functions. If the levels of unbound triiodothyronine (T3) are too low, this might result in excessive fatigue, which can last for weeks and even months. It is essential to mention here that a high-quality fatigue panel looks at the free levels of T3 in the body, not only at the total T3 levels because these are the most responsible for regulating energy and causing fatigue. Total and Free Testosterone Tests Testosterone is one of the most essential hormones in the body for men AND women. Today, it is a well-known fact that low testosterone levels are responsible for the lack of motivation, low energy, and even mild depression in some cases. Testosterone is available in 2 ways – free and bound to proteins. A high-quality fatigue panel looks at the total testosterone levels and free testosterone levels (unbound to proteins) to determine if this is indeed the leading cause of excessive tiredness in men and women. The total testosterone test measures the whole spectrum of testosterone in one’s body. This should be between 300 and 900 nanograms per deciliter of blood for men, but this depends on lifestyle, age, body composition, and other factors. When the total testosterone levels drop below 350 ng/dl, a condition known as hypogonadism develops. This diagnosis can be a severe cause of excessive fatigue and other symptoms and body changes such as lack of concentration and male breast development (gynecomastia). The free testosterone test looks specifically at unbound testosterone levels. It is important to measure those in particular because a low amount of them can account for excessive fatigue in men and women of all ages.   Anemia Tests Anemia is a severe problem which can become very dangerous for one's health if left untreated. As you probably already know, red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells, tissues, and organs throughout the body. Anemic people usually have too few red blood cells in the bloodstream. Too few red blood cells can cause various symptoms such as excessive tiredness, dizziness, irregular heartbeats, etc. The fatigue panel runs various tests to determine the level of hemoglobin in the body (a protein responsible for carrying oxygen) and analyze hematocrit values (the volume of red blood cells in the bloodstream). The hematocrit tests look at the percentage of red cells in the bloodstream. A small rate might be indicative of anemia as well as chronic fatigue. The hemoglobin tests measure the level of hemoglobin in the body. Again, if this protein is in small quantities, one can develop anemia. The Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) tests look at the size of the red blood cells. This is important because if the size of these cells is too small, this might result in iron deficiency. If the cells are too large, this might be linked to vitamin B6 or folic acid deficiency. The Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) values are also measured in conjunction with the MCV to determine the potential cause of anemia. Glucose Tests Just as cars need to burn fuel to move from one place to the other, your body also requires an adequate fuel supply to function correctly. If vehicles have gasoline, we humans have glucose (or sugar). Normal blood sugar levels help one have sufficient energy to get through the day. However, too much or too little blood sugar levels can lead to multiple severe health conditions and excessive fatigue. When the body detects a high amount of sugar in the bloodstream (particularly after eating meals full of carbs and fats, which are metabolized into glucose in the body), it will signal the pancreas to produce a hormone called insulin. The importance of insulin in the body Insulin acts as a locksmith that opens up cells, so they can absorb the excess glucose in the bloodstream and produce energy. When the blood sugar levels return to normal, the pancreas stops producing insulin, and the cycle repeats. However, when too much glucose is detected in the bloodstream regularly, the pancreas is forced to produce higher amounts of insulin which might then drop the sugar levels too low. As a result, your cells and organs won’t have as much fuel at their disposal, and you always feel tired. Furthermore, when there is an excessive amount of sugar in the blood for several years in a row, the cells in the body start to develop insulin resistance, meaning that they won’t “open up” as efficiently as before to absorb glucose and produce energy. This can lead to diabetes which is a severe medical condition.   High sugar levels in the blood can cause multiple health problems High amounts of glucose can also lead to other issues such as slow circulation, higher risk of inflammation in the body, less oxygen transported to cells, organs, etc. People who experience these symptoms are fatigued most of the time, despite having regular sleep schedules. Even those who have high blood sugar levels but do not have diabetes can still feel tired most of the time, compared with people with normal glucose levels. A fatigue panel is designed to test glucose levels and determines if one is predisposed to diabetes type I and II. Such tests also measure the average glycated hemoglobin levels (A1c), which are sugar-coated oxygen-carrying red blood cell proteins. A high level of these cells can indicate a predisposition to diabetes at some point in the future and can be linked to chronic fatigue.   Adrenal Glands Tests The adrenal glands are situated just on top of your kidneys and generate multiple important hormones such as epinephrine (adrenaline) and cortisol. Think of them as responsible with the “fight or flight” response when you’re stressed out, scared, or excited. These glands are essential because if they don't function correctly, one can develop chronic fatigue and mild signs of depression. Studies show that approximately 40% of people over 60 have to deal with constant tiredness associated with reduced adrenal function. We all live stressful lives and have to juggle a thousand daily problems and responsibilities. This makes the adrenal glands pump a lot of cortisol and adrenaline into the body. Too many hormones can make someone feel very stressed, mildly depressed, and fatigued. Poor sleep quality can also worsen the problem because the adrenal glands tend to recover when the body is at rest. Most people don’t get enough sleep during the night, so these glands don’t get a chance to rejuvenate properly. Add periodic stimulants to the equation (alcohol and drugs), and the load on the adrenal glands can quickly become overwhelming. Adrenal problems don’t only translate into constant fatigue. Dizziness, poor concentration, anxiety and panic attacks, etc also accompany them. A complete fatigue panel looks at the hormones produced by the adrenal glands and determines if they are in sufficient quantities. For example: The DHEA test looks at the levels of DHEA-S in the body. This is an androgen hormone, and if it is in excessively high quantities, the person in question might suffer from adrenal hyperplasia. Similarly, if the levels of DHEA-S are insufficient, this can lead to chronic fatigue. The salivary cortisol test is also essential in determining the differences in cortisol levels at different moments of the day. Patients will be asked to collect four saliva samples during the day, and this will indicate whether the adrenal glands function correctly or they produce too much cortisol regularly.   Immune system tests As you probably already know, the immune system is responsible for neutralizing viruses and bacteria which get in the body so you don’t get sick all the time. It relies on a series of cells, such as the T cells and other hormones, to identify viruses and eliminate them before they get a chance to multiply. An immune system that functions properly requires energy.Suppose there is too much inflammation in the body (as a result of injury, being exposed to a lot of viruses and toxins, etc.). In that case, this system will work overtime to protect your health, and it will consume vast amounts of energy, leaving you tired and in a bad mood. A complete fatigue panel includes tests that measure the number of white cells in the bloodstream. These cells are responsible for neutralizing viruses and bacteria as well. In some rare cases, the bone marrow might not produce sufficient white cells, which can signify a more severe problem.   Iron tests Iron is an essential element in the body, as it produces red blood cells that help carry oxygen to organs and tissues. Anemia, which is characterized by exhaustion, wooziness, and a general feeling of weakness, can result from not having enough iron in one's body. A fatigue panel looks at different hormones in the body which are responsible for metabolizing and storing iron. For example: The ferritin test looks at the ferritin levels in the bloodstream. This protein is responsible for storing iron, and if its levels are insufficient, one can develop anemia, which leads to excessive tiredness. One reason ferritin levels might be low is that one donates too much blood each year. Studies show that donating blood more than twice a year can deplete ferritin levels, leading to anemia. The TIBC test (total iron binding capacity) looks at the absolute levels of iron available in the bloodstream. If this value is too high, then the amounts of iron in the body are insufficient, which can cause excessive fatigue. FAQ 1. Do I need to fast before getting tested? Doing a fasting session of 8-12 hours is recommended before drawing blood. Also, biotin supplementation should be stopped 72 hours before being tested. 2. How quickly are the results delivered? You will usually get the results by email in a few business days. 3. What specimens are submitted for testing? Fatigue panels require patients to submit a blood specimen and, in some cases, a saliva specimen for testing. The instructions on managing and properly collecting these samples are provided within the package, so you will know precisely what to do. 4. What should I do after I get the results? Your healthcare provider will interpret your results and, if necessary, will suggest effective treatment options. For example, if you have iron deficiency and this is the leading cause of your fatigue, you’ll be guided to supplement with iron for some time. Similarly, suppose low testosterone or thyroid hormone blood levels cause your fatigue. In that case, you'll be advised to explore solutions such as Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) or thyroid hormone replacement to help deal with your fatigue problem. 5. Is this test safe? Yes! The submission of samples and results analysis is entirely confidential, and you’ll be drawing blood in a medical setting under specialized supervision.   Conclusion Diagnosing chronic fatigue is not easy, but you’re one step closer to feeling better by ordering a comprehensive fatigue panel. Order the complete fatigue panel today from Discounted Labs, and you can drastically improve the quality of your life!   BUY THE COMPREHENSIVE FATIGUE BLOOD TEST PANEL HERE