Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, commonly known as DHEAS, is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands, small organs located above the kidneys. It serves as a precursor, meaning it is converted by the body into other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. DHEAS levels naturally fluctuate throughout life, peaking in early adulthood and gradually declining with age. When DHEAS levels become elevated, it can signal an underlying imbalance that may require attention.
Understanding Elevated DHEAS
Elevated DHEAS levels refer to concentrations of this hormone above the typical range for an individual’s age and sex. This elevation can stem from several conditions affecting the adrenal glands or ovaries. Common causes include Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), an inherited disorder where the adrenal glands produce too many male sex hormones, or adrenal tumors that lead to overproduction of DHEAS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder in women, is also associated with elevated DHEAS levels.
High DHEAS levels can manifest in various symptoms, particularly in women, due to its conversion into more potent androgens. These symptoms may include acne, excessive facial or body hair growth (hirsutism), male-pattern hair loss, and irregular menstrual cycles. In severe cases, voice deepening, increased muscle definition, and clitoral enlargement can occur. In children, elevated DHEAS can cause early puberty in boys and ambiguous external genitalia or abnormal menstrual periods in girls.
Medical Approaches for Reduction
When elevated DHEAS levels are identified, medical interventions often focus on addressing the root cause. For conditions like Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy with glucocorticoids, such as hydrocortisone, prednisone, or dexamethasone. These medications work to suppress the overproduction of androgens by the adrenal glands. Infants with salt-wasting CAH may also receive fludrocortisone to help maintain normal salt levels.
Adrenal tumors may require surgical removal to reduce DHEAS levels. Following surgery, DHEAS levels can decrease significantly, often normalizing within weeks to months. Monitoring DHEAS levels after treatment helps assess the effectiveness of the intervention. For Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), medical management may include combined oral contraceptives to help regulate hormone levels and reduce androgen symptoms. Additionally, medications like metformin can improve insulin sensitivity, which indirectly helps lower DHEAS in individuals with insulin resistance.
Lifestyle Strategies for Reduction
Dietary adjustments play a role in supporting healthy hormone balance. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, supports hormonal health. Limiting refined carbohydrates, excessive sugar, and processed foods can help improve insulin sensitivity, which may influence DHEAS levels. Some research suggests that incorporating foods like spearmint tea, flaxseed, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce androgen levels.
Regular physical activity can also contribute to hormone balance. Moderate-intensity exercise, including strength training a few times a week, can be beneficial. Consistent physical activity may help regulate cortisol and DHEAS levels over time. Avoiding overtraining is advisable, as excessive intensity can stress the adrenal glands.
Managing stress is another area that can impact hormone levels. Chronic stress can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, including those produced by the adrenal glands. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and spending time in nature can help reduce stress and support hormonal well-being. Ensuring adequate and quality sleep is also important for hormonal regulation, as sleep deprivation can influence cortisol and other hormone levels.
Maintaining a healthy weight can positively influence hormone balance. Maintaining a healthy body composition can support overall hormonal regulation. Weight management strategies, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can be particularly helpful for individuals with conditions like PCOS, which often involve insulin resistance and elevated DHEAS.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Consulting a healthcare professional is important when there are concerns about DHEAS levels. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment are not recommended, as elevated DHEAS can indicate serious underlying medical conditions that require proper diagnosis and management. A doctor can order specific blood tests to measure DHEAS and other hormone levels to determine the cause of any imbalance.
A healthcare provider can interpret test results in the context of an individual’s symptoms and medical history. They can then formulate a personalized treatment plan, which may involve medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments, or a combination of approaches. Regular monitoring of DHEAS levels and overall health is often necessary to ensure treatment effectiveness and adjust strategies as needed.