What to say to the Doctor

Hello,

I too am suffering from the post Propecia sides, and I stopped taking the drug a little over a year ago. I’m going to be seeing an endocrinologist for the first time, and was wondering what do you think will be the best approach to speak to him about my issue? I don’t want him to think that he “understands” my imbalance and start treating me like he does a typical patient. We know that even though our tests appear “normal” that something in the system is still not correct. I have all the classical sides i.e., low libido, weak erection, and the one I hate the most BRAIN FOG. I had to drop out of school, quite my studies, and now can barley write. Look at this letter I’m typing – horrible. I used to be able to think crystal clear, study philosophy, and perform mental logic easily. Now, I can only dream of doing that.

I have taken a few blood tests, and yes, my estradiol is above average and out of range (high – rage is .04-.1.4 mine was 2.4), DHT is low but “still in range" which we know doenst mean much( it was a 33 when below is 25), and testosterone is about 680, which is low for me. What do you think is the best approach to speak to my endocrinologist? I have the abstract study that shows that DHT positively upregulated 5AR expression in rats, and I’m bringing that with me. I’m not sure what direction the endocrinologist is going to take; I sure he will at minimum prescribe an estrogen inhibitor. I’m afraid that my HPTA has shut down – not sure – but I’m more afraid the endo might not be aware of these post effects of finasteride, and I want to bring it to his attention without getting the “it’s all in your head” comment.

Any knowledge you have would be great and much appreciated.

Most doctors are ignorant to the fact that propecia can cause long term or permanent side effects. Honestly, this is my opinion…to save you a few visits to a few doctors, I would probably skip directly to Dr. Crisler for the simple fact he has a better idea on what’s going on.

Read FAQ at top of site for starters.

Review Finasteride Studies section and print out materials you feel are relevant to your case. There are studies stating Fin affects the androgen/estrogen ratio in men in favor of estrogen.

For brain fog issues, some of the studies here are of interest:
propeciahelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1387

For permanent ED, propeciahelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2002

Consider bringing a laptop with you with wireless Internet, or download from Youtube:

youtube.com/watch?v=B8e7HERXA3s
youtube.com/watch?v=2nXWVTStnHs

Basically you need to arm yourself with enough materials if you need to argue your case, to convince him if he doesn’t believe you. If still no luck, consider seeing docs listed in DOCTORS section of this site.

Right, i have an appointment for the first time with the doc tomorrow regarding my propecia issue. I have been off the drug for 10 months. I have decided that if it fails here in London i will go the US.

Please can someone tell me how best to go about it. I have a few printouts from wikepedia and this site which might help. I know I should ask for a range of tests as listed in the FAQ. Should i also ask to be referred to so someone? And who best, an endocronologist?

I must admit i am rather nervous about it, i just hope it goes well and i say all that should be said. Part of me is thinking cancelling the app as ive never opened up like this before but i will resist! I want to leave the appointment with some sort of hope.

Same question, see answers above. Ask for a referral to an Endocrinologist, or better yet, a Neuro-Endocrinologist.

Since you’re in Europe you may also want to consider a visit to Dr. Hertoghe before going to the USA – propeciahelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2734