What is cortisol?
Cortisol is a vital hormone that is released during stress, among other things, and is therefore often called the “stress hormone”. The production of cortisol occurs in the adrenal cortex, which in turn is controlled by signals from the brain. Cortisol has a variety of different functions, including regulating the metabolism of sugar, fat and protein in the body. Cortisol also affects the functions of the heart and blood vessels, skeletal muscle, the central nervous system and many other tissues. Cortisol is vital in the right amount, and helps the body to perform better, both physically and mentally in stress-related situations. Cortisol also inhibits inflammation in the body.How is cortisol measured?
The cortisol test is a simple saliva test that you perform yourself at home. The method is well-proven and has been used in healthcare for a long time. Saliva is collected in test tubes on two occasions over a 12-hour period, once in the morning and once in the evening. The samples are then sent to our lab for analysis and you will receive your test results digitally within a few days of the lab receiving your test.Symptoms of high cortisol
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Decreased sex drive (men)
- Menstrual disorders (women)
- Infertility
Symptoms of low cortisol
- Lethargy
- Brain fatigue
- Dizziness
- Weight gain
- Chilliness, low body temperature
Lack of cortisol - Addison's disease (Adrenal insufficiency)
If you have a lack of cortisol, you may have an autoimmune disease, Addison's - a life-threatening disease if not treated. The disease means that the body's immune system attacks the adrenal cortex, where cortisol is produced. Symptoms include muscle weakness, fatigue and weight loss. Addison's disease can be detected by measuring cortisol in the blood in the morning. A low value may indicate adrenal insufficiency.What is analysed
- Cortisol