Elevated DHEA Needs a Second Look

DHEA is a steroid hormone produced primarily in the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen.

It plays a role in immune regulation, bone density, muscle strength, vascular function, and brain health.

DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and decline with age, with lower levels linked to increased mortality and cardiovascular risk.

Acute stress can temporarily elevate DHEA, while chronic stress can suppress its production, reducing its protective effects. The more stable form, DHEA-S, is often associated with long-term stress exposure.

Persistently elevated DHEA levels may indicate underlying metabolic dysfunction, adrenal disorders, or hormone imbalances, such as PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or adrenal tumors.

While high levels can be a response to acute stress, chronic elevation should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Identifying the cause of abnormal DHEA levels is essential before considering treatment, as factors like stress, enzyme deficiencies, or androgen metabolism changes may influence it.

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