Cortisol levels fluctuate from day to night. This test measures morning and late afternoon cortisol values to provide a better assessment of cortisol than just one measurement.
Cortisol is the major adrenal steroid hormone and is controlled by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. The body’s stress response increases cortisol in order to mobilize energy to manage and resolve the stressor.
Chronic stress can fatigue the adrenal gland which can disrupt its normal diurnal control over cortisol. This disruption can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.
So if you’re feeling tired and stressed out, check your cortisol level.
Typically cortisol is highest in the morning and drops during the day for most people. Some people have a “reverse” cortisol curve where it is higher at night instead of being highest in the morning. Obtaining a morning and late afternoon cortisol value provides more information regarding an individual’s daily fluctuation in cortisol. Also, in conjunction with DHEA-S, a cortisol test allows your doctor the opportunity to better evaluate overall adrenal function.
Instructions
Since cortisol levels normally fluctuate throughout the day, a blood level is checked in the morning around 8 a.m. and again in the afternoon around 4 p.m. Fasting is not required for this test. Take all medications as prescribed.
The laboratory services are for informational purposes only. It is not the intention of National Diagnostics, Inc and Life Extension to provide specific medical advice but rather to provide users with information to better understand their health. Specific medical advice including diagnosis and treatment will not be provided. Always seek the advice of a trained health professional for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Both the physician and the testing laboratory are independent contractors with whom National Diagnostics, Inc makes arrangements for your blood tests. Neither National Diagnostics, Inc or Life Extension will be liable for any acts or omissions of the physician, the testing laboratory, or their agents or employees.
Copyright Life Barn Club. All Rights Reserved. by 3dcart eCommerce Website design.