Question 1

I'm 17 and a guy, and I've been masturbating every day since I was 15, but I've cut back now. I'm a bit worried if this might have caused a rise in my prolactin levels, leading to low testosterone. Could this also be why I'm not growing much of a beard?

Accepted Answer

Excessive masturbation does not directly cause an increase in prolactin levels, which can affect testosterone production. However, chronic stress or certain medications can lead to elevated prolactin levels. To help regulate testosterone levels and promote beard growth, you can consider taking supplements like zinc and vitamin D. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine can also support hormone balance.

Question 2

I'm really worried about my mom. She's been having chest pain and her ECG was abnormal, but her echo and TMT came out okay. Her blood tests showed she has diabetes and her thyroid level was at 10. The doctor gave her meds for the sugar and thyroid issues, but she's still in pain. What could be going on, and what should we do next?

Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your mother's continuing chest pain. Given that her ECG was abnormal but the echocardiogram (echo) and treadmill test (TMT) were normal, it's important to explore other potential causes of her chest pain, such as gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal problems, or anxiety. Since she has been diagnosed with diabetes and thyroid issues, it's critical to manage these conditions properly, as they can sometimes contribute to chest pain.

I recommend a follow-up with her healthcare provider to reassess her symptoms, review her medication regimen, and possibly consider additional tests like a chest X-ray or a consultation with a gastroenterologist depending on her symptoms.

Question 3

I'm trying to understand the difference between TSH and TSH ultrasensitive tests. How do they differ, and is one considered better than the other? It's a bit confusing to me.

Accepted Answer

TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) and TSH Ultra-Sensitive are both blood tests that measure thyroid function, but the key difference lies in their sensitivity: TSH measures TSH levels above 0.5-1.0 mUL, while TSH Ultra-Sensitive measures levels as low as 0.01-0.05 mUL, making it more sensitive in detecting subtle thyroid function abnormalities, especially in cases of hyperthyroidism or thyroiditis, so the Ultra-Sensitive test is generally considered better for diagnosing and monitoring thyroid conditions.

How do people die from diabetes?

Diabetes when uncontrolled can cause sudden increase in blood sugar level causing an emergency called Diabetic ketoacidosis which can be life threatening if not treated in time. Also, long standing Diabetes may lead to organ damage which can be fatal.

More Endocrinology Health Queries

I'm 17 and a guy, and I've been masturbating every day since I was 15, but I've cut back now. I'm a bit worried if this might have caused a rise in my prolactin levels, leading to low testosterone. Could this also be why I'm not growing much of a beard?

I'm trying to understand the difference between TSH and TSH ultrasensitive tests. How do they differ, and is one considered better than the other? It's a bit confusing to me.

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