What the value means
DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is made mainly by the adrenal glands and is reported in µmol/L. It is a storage form from which the body can make testosterone and estrogens. Levels peak around age 20–30 and then gradually fall, so laboratories use age- and sex-specific ranges, which differ from one another. In large observational studies lower DHEA-S is linked to poorer health, but it is unclear whether it is a cause or just a marker – a “normal” value is therefore not a goal in itself.
Possible causes
- Age – a gradual decline from your thirties onwards is expected and is not a disease in itself.
- Corticosteroids – tablets, but also higher doses of inhaled corticosteroids, suppress the adrenals and lower DHEA-S.
- Estrogens – hormonal contraception or hormone therapy can lower DHEA-S.
- Chronic illness and energy deficit – long-term inflammatory conditions, serious illness, undernutrition or very low energy intake show up as lower levels.
- Adrenals and pituitary – reduced adrenal function (Addison's disease) or pituitary function is a rare but important cause.
What you can do
- Read the result by age – compare it with the range for your age and sex; if in doubt, morning cortisol, ACTH and minerals (sodium, potassium) can help.
- Consider medicines – tell your doctor about all corticosteroids, including inhalers, creams and injections.
- Sleep and exercise – regular sleep, strength and endurance exercise and stress management support overall hormonal balance.
- Enough energy – avoid long-term extreme diets; eat a varied diet with enough protein.
- DHEA is not an ordinary supplement – it is a hormone and in many EU countries it is not permitted as a food supplement; evidence of benefit in healthy people is mixed, so use it only in agreement with a doctor.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if DHEA-S is markedly low and you have fatigue, weakness, unintended weight loss, dizziness on standing, salt craving, darkening of the skin or recurrent nausea – this may indicate an adrenal disorder. Women with low libido or irregular cycles can discuss the result with a gynaecologist or endocrinologist. Do not stop corticosteroids or other medicines on your own – stopping suddenly can be dangerous.