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Comment by mise_en_place | Hacker News Reader

I’d recommend you get your testosterone levels checked. One of the symptoms of low total testosterone is depression in males.

When I was checked I was on the lower end at 200 ng/dl and had the symptoms you describe. My doctor prescribed me first stanolone (DHT) and then switched me to regular testosterone. All I can say is it has changed my life. It may not be applicable to your situation but it might help.

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Gotta love internet diagnoses. Probably well-intended, but you don't even know if they are male or female :)

As I had mentioned, it may not be applicable to their situation. But there is no doubt in my mind that testosterone mediates longevity in some fashion.

The question is, at what level is that? And does it vary individually? Too much and you’re at risk for adverse cardiovascular events. Too little and your bones will snap like twigs and your muscles will waste away.

Actually, the symptoms described are more to do with low estrogen (well, estradiol). And in males, estrogen is made by the action of the aromatase enzyme on free testosterone So tl;dr maybe OP is just menopausal? :))))

Not to pew pew your suggestion, but apparently sleep, diet, and, exercise effect test levels as well, so more things to check at and rule out before committing to lifelong trt. Although I keep reading testomonials where people say they don't mind jabbing or applying creams.

Also test levels vary drastically during the day in a two peak fashion, when you get tested can affect results in a misleading fashion.

Also genetic sensitivity to testosterone can effect test levels. So you really need a good doctor who is able to look honestly at your symptoms and who isn't running a testosterone mill which is just a modern day equivalent of snake oil (except more dangerous, since test is actually biologically active haha)

maybe everyone in north korea or 18th century france is also low T. it’s probably a chemical imbalance

thank you for your suggestion. I think talking to your doctor to see if it's reasonable, is a great idea. Much appreciated!

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