Cortisol Test - Serum

The Cortisol 8.00 am test measures the concentration of cortisol in the blood at 8:00 am.

• Diagnosis of Adrenal Disorders:

1. Cushing's Syndrome: Elevated cortisol levels at 8:00 am may indicate Cushing's syndrome, a condition characterized by excessive cortisol production.
2. Addison's Disease: Low cortisol levels at 8:00 am may suggest Addison's disease, an adrenal insufficiency condition.

• Monitoring Cortisol Replacement Therapy: For individuals receiving cortisol replacement therapy, the test is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
• Identification of Hormonal Imbalances: The test is part of a comprehensive hormonal evaluation, especially when hormonal imbalances are suspected. It aids in identifying disruptions in the endocrine system.
• Evaluation of Stress Response: Cortisol is often referred to as the "stress hormone." Measuring cortisol levels in the morning provides insight into the body's ability to mount a proper stress response.
• Risk Assessment for Associated Conditions: Elevated cortisol levels may be associated with an increased risk of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Monitoring cortisol levels can contribute to assessing overall health risks.

• If a person exhibits symptoms such as abdominal obesity, thin skin, easy bruising, and high blood pressure, a cortisol 8:00 am test may be recommended to investigate possible Cushing's syndrome.
• In cases where symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure suggest Addison's disease, the test may be used to assess cortisol levels.
• Individuals receiving cortisol replacement therapy due to adrenal insufficiency may undergo this test to ensure appropriate dosing and management.
• The test may be part of a broader hormonal evaluation, especially when hormonal imbalances are suspected.

Abnormal results may indicate various conditions, including Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. Elevated cortisol levels may suggest an overproduction (Cushing's), while low levels may indicate an underproduction (Addison's) of cortisol.

The test involves taking a blood sample at 8:00 am. A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein to collect the blood. The procedure is relatively quick and typically causes minimal discomfort.

No specific preparations are required. However, specific instructions from the healthcare provider should be followed. Inform the healthcare team about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain drugs can affect cortisol levels.

Additional tests that may be ordered include:

• 24-Hour Urinary Free Cortisol Test: Measures the total amount of cortisol excreted in the urine over 24 hours.
• ACTH Stimulation Test: Evaluates the adrenal glands' response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

• Morning Cortisol Test
• AM Cortisol Test

Cortisol plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress and is involved in various physiological functions. When the body perceives a stressor, whether it's a physical threat or a psychological stressor, the hypothalamus (a region in the brain) releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). CRH signals the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH, in turn, stimulates the adrenal glands to produce and release cortisol into the bloodstream. The release of cortisol is part of the body's "fight or flight" response to stress. Cortisol increases the availability of glucose in the bloodstream, providing the body with a quick source of energy to respond to the stressor. Cortisol acts on various tissues and organs to prepare the body to cope with the stress. It increases heart rate, mobilizes energy stores, and suppresses non-essential functions like digestion and immune response.

• Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels have been linked to abdominal obesity. Cortisol promotes the storage of fat in the abdominal area, contributing to weight gain.
• Elevated cortisol levels can contribute to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
• Chronic stress and dysregulated cortisol levels are associated with hypertension (high blood pressure), a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
• Prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
• Chronic stress or disruptions in daily routines can lead to altered cortisol patterns, contributing to sleep disturbances.
• Dysregulation of cortisol has been implicated in mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
• Chronic stress and altered cortisol levels can influence reproductive hormones, potentially contributing to menstrual irregularities and fertility issues.
• Some research suggests that chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels may contribute to accelerated aging processes at the cellular level.

A Cortisol Test measures the level of cortisol hormone present in the blood, urine, or saliva. It helps evaluate adrenal gland function and diagnose conditions like Cushing's syndrome, Addison's disease, and other disorders affecting cortisol production.

The Cortisol Test is essential for diagnosing and managing conditions related to abnormal cortisol levels. It helps evaluate adrenal gland function, monitor the effects of glucocorticoid medications, and identify underlying causes of symptoms like unexplained weight gain, high blood pressure, and chronic fatigue.

A cortisol blood test can be performed at any age if clinical indications are suggesting abnormal cortisol levels. It is particularly important in children with growth issues, young adults with hypertension or osteoporosis, and individuals of any age with symptoms suggestive of cortisol imbalances.

Cortisol levels typically follow a circadian rhythm, with the lowest levels at night, usually around midnight to 3 am.

Yes, caffeine can increase cortisol levels by stimulating the central nervous system, which can lead to increased production of stress hormones, including cortisol.

Foods high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and those that cause inflammation can potentially increase cortisol levels. Consuming large meals close to bedtime can also disrupt the natural cortisol rhythm.

High levels of cortisol can contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress. Cortisol affects the nervous system and can lead to emotional arousal, including strong emotions like fear and anger.

High morning cortisol levels can be normal due to the natural circadian rhythm of cortisol production. However, consistently elevated morning cortisol levels could indicate conditions like Cushing's syndrome, stress, or acute illness.

Natural ways to reduce cortisol and stress include practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing; getting adequate sleep; engaging in regular physical activity; following a balanced diet; avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime; and taking breaks and engaging in relaxation activities throughout the day.

The time it takes to normalise high cortisol levels depends on the underlying cause. For conditions like Cushing's syndrome, treatment may involve surgery, medication, or other interventions, and recovery times can vary. Lifestyle changes can help manage stress-related cortisol elevations more quickly, often within a few weeks to a few months.

Long-term effects of low cortisol levels (Addison's disease) include chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, abdominal pain, skin pigmentation changes, hypotension, increased susceptibility to infections, poor wound healing, and menstrual irregularities in women.

Excessive cortisol production can lead to various health issues, including weight gain (particularly in the abdominal area), high blood pressure, high blood sugar, insomnia, mood changes (such as anxiety and depression), osteoporosis, suppressed immune system function, and menstrual irregularities and fertility issues.

The benefits of the Cortisol Test include accurate diagnosis of conditions like Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease, monitoring of adrenal gland function, identification of underlying causes of symptoms such as weight gain, hypertension, and chronic fatigue, and guidance for treatment and management of cortisol-related disorders.

Generally, fasting is not required before a Cortisol Test. However, patients may be advised to stop taking certain medications that could affect cortisol levels and to avoid vigorous exercise the day before the cortisol blood test.

Yes, Metropolis Healthcare offers home sample collection for the Cortisol Test or the serum Cortisol Test. A trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect the blood sample, ensuring comfort, safety, and accurate testing.

The serum cortisol test reports are typically delivered after 6 hours, depending on the collection and processing time of the sample.