Cortisol Serum, Evening Sample Test Cost & Procedure

Cortisol is a steroid hormone stimulated by the adrenal glands. When you experience something your body perceives as a threat, such as the barking of a large dog, a chemical known as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is released in your brain. This causes the adrenal glands to release cortisol and adrenaline.

Cortisol is the major hormone involved in stress and the fight, flight, or freeze response. This is a natural, defensive response to perceived threat or danger. Elevated cortisol levels give you a boost of energy and vitality.

In the combat, flight, or freeze response, cortisol suppresses any processes that are undue or detrimental to that reaction. During a fight, flight, or freeze reaction, you can hold:

-A rapid heart rate
-Dry mouth
-Stomach upset
-Diarrhea
-Panic

Cortisol release also:

-Suppresses your growth processes
-Suppresses your digestive system
-Suppresses your reproductive system
-Changes how your immune system responds

What is it used for?

The cortisol test is used to diagnose conditions of too much or too little cortisol. Cushing's Syndrome is a condition that occurs when cortisol is in excess for a long period.

Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands are damaged and unable to produce enough cortisol.

Secondary adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol because the pituitary gland is not working properly.

What Happens in a Cortisol Test?

Cortisol tests often use blood samples taken in the laboratory. You can also take a urine or saliva test at home. Cortisol levels typically vary throughout the day, so your provider may order more than one type of test to give you more information about your cortisol levels.

For a blood test, a healthcare provider uses a fine needle to take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. After the needle punch, a small amount of blood is taken into a test tube or vial. There may be a slight tingling feeling when inserting and withdrawing the needle. Generally, this takes him no more than five minutes.

Usually, blood samples are taken from him twice a day. Once in the morning when cortisol levels are highest, and again around 4 pm when cortisol levels are much lower.

What do the results mean?

Cortisol testing alone cannot diagnose the cause of abnormal cortisol levels. If cortisol levels are abnormal, more tests are usually done to determine the cause of the problem.