Low Libido redux

Hello,
I have a very strange low libido problem, and the only place I've heard of a similar situation was here on this board.  Another guy wrote:

"i feel libido come up initially if i travel - like take
a buisness trip by plane - upon arrival in a new hotel
and sometimes after a long trip and runnig around in airports
i have erections + unexpected libido."

I used to have a very strong libido -- in last year it has dipped greatly.  However, if I get on a plane, presto! it's back way up.  It's like the air pressure unclogs something.  I mentioned this to my primary care, he has no idea what to make of it -- this other guy on your board (from 2004) is the ONLY OTHER PERSON I've heard of heard of with a problem like mine.

My testosterone has been tested, is normal.  I am 38, exercise regularly, drink moderately, used to chew tobacco (quit a year ago), am able to get morning erections (plumbing works).  Everything seems fine, except for something being plugged or clogged that somehow gets unclogged with air pressure change (or some other effect of air travel).  

The only other clue I can give you is that I have recently heightened cholesterol, which is very strange: i eat extremely healthily, natural foods only.  I am fit.  This perhaps suggests a thyroid issue?

Any idea where to even begin looking for the problem?  Should I see a urologist?  endocrinologist?  Any insight greatly appreciated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Can't recommend a specialist without a few basic tests first.  In addition to testosterone level, blood tests looking for diabetes and thyroid disorders should be done.  If there is any abnormalities in these levels, a referral to an endocrinologist can be considered.

If morning erections are present, it is less likely that an anatomical abnormality is present.  To be sure, an ultrasound to evaluate the penile vasculature can be considered.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_