Cortisol

A cortisol test is a blood test that measures the levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in your body. The benefits of getting a cortisol test include:

Diagnosing conditions related to cortisol levels: Cortisol plays an important role in regulating the body’s stress response, blood sugar levels, immune system function, and metabolism. Abnormal cortisol levels can indicate a range of medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, adrenal insufficiency, and others.

Monitoring treatment: If you have been diagnosed with a condition that affects your cortisol levels, such as Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease, a cortisol test can help monitor your response to treatment and ensure that your cortisol levels are within a healthy range.

Identifying adrenal gland problems: A cortisol test can help identify problems with the adrenal gland, which produces cortisol, and determine whether additional testing or treatment is needed.

Assessing stress levels: Cortisol is often referred to as the “stress hormone” because it is released in response to stress. Measuring cortisol levels can provide insight into your stress levels and help identify ways to manage stress.

Overall, a cortisol test can provide valuable information about your health and help diagnose and manage a range of medical conditions.