Will low testosterone levels cause anxiety and panic attacks?

Resolved question:
I am a 24 year old male who recently developed symptoms of panic attacks out of nowhere. After a lot of doctors visits I finally was able to see a endocrine who took blood work and told me my testosterone was extremely low for somebody my age. I was prescribed clomid 25mg a day for the next 3 months with appointments to get blood work done every 4-6 weeks. My question is how long should it take for me to notice a difference and could low T and unbalanced hormones be the cause of the physical symptoms causing me so much anxiety/panic??

Submitted: 4 Days
Category: Endocrinologist

Expert:  Dr. J Muthukrishnan replied 4 Days.

Hello.



Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com.



In order to give my best opinion, I will need a few more details in your case.



1. What was the level of Testosterone, LH and FSH reported in your test results?

2. Was a Thyroid function test done?

3. Did you have any symptoms like loss of libido, difficulty in having or sustaining an erection/sexual intercourse?

4. Did you have any loss of hair / slow growth of beard, axillary or groin hair?

5. Did you have any weakness, thinning of muscles etc? 



Please reply with answers to these questions,  and I will be able to advise you better.



Regards.


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Patient replied :

1. I don't have the test numbers on hand I would need to ask my doctor for specifics.
2. I attached a thyroid test results.
3. Absolutely have a loss of libidos and loss of energy feeling extremely drained lately and sleeping a lot.
4. No not that I know off
5. Muscles are def feeling a lot more fatigued especially my legs.
The main thing I am hoping this fixes is my recent boughts of panic and anxiety. I have never had a history of panic and I had read online that low test can cause panic attacks because it can increase cortisol in your body? Any truth here?


Expert:  Dr. J Muthukrishnan replied 3 Days.

Hello.



In case you do have low Testosterone levels, then the best treatment is Testosterone replacement itself. Clomiphene is not a good choice here.

We also need to know the cause of low Testosterone, which will need tests like LH, FSH, Prolactin and if required, a MRI scan for pituitary.

Bouts of panic and anxiety may happen due to sudden fall in Testosetrone levels, but not necessarily due to cortisol. A rise in FSH, LH and some reasons, unknown can lead to such symptoms.



So I suggest that you get your LH, FSH and Prolactin levels checked as the first step.



If after Testosterone supplementation, your anxiety does not subside, you will need to consult a psychiatrist to evaluate your panic and anxiety and for appropriate management.



Let me know if you have any other queries.



Thank you.


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