What is cortisol and why cortisol test is done? Test preparation, normal range, sample collection, and sample tube are all details in a single post.

How are you all, Today we will discuss the cortisol test. What is cortisol and why does the doctor advise to do this test? Is there any preparation for this test? What is the normal range? In which tube the sample is collected, these issues will be discussed.

What is cortisol:

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, located above the kidneys. It plays an important role in the body’s response to stress and helps regulate various physiological processes, including metabolism, immune function, and blood pressure.

Cortisol is often referred to as the “stress hormone”. Because it’s level increases due to stress. However, chronically elevated cortisol levels can have adverse health effects if not properly controlled.

why the cortisol test is done?

Some common reasons for testing cortisol include:

1. Diagnosis of Adrenal Gland Diseases: The test helps diagnose Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, and adrenal insufficiency.
2. Monitoring corticosteroid therapy: For patients receiving corticosteroid medication, testing is done to ensure proper dosage and detect possible side effects.
3. Investigating symptoms: If a person experiences symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, high blood pressure, or mood swings, a cortisol test can help diagnose an underlying hormone imbalance.
4. Managing stress-related conditions: The test can help determine how stress is affecting cortisol levels and what impact this will have on overall health.

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what is the abbreviation for cortisol on a blood test:

The abbreviation for cortisol on a blood test is serum cortisol, basal cortisol, or morning cortisol.

Test preparation:

To prepare for a cortisol test, your healthcare provider may recommend the following:

1. Time of test: Cortisol levels can vary at different times of the day, so the doctor may schedule the test in the morning when cortisol levels are usually higher. May also recommend a cortisol test in the afternoon.
2. Medications: Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, as some medications can affect cortisol levels. You may be advised to temporarily stop taking some of the medications before the test
3. Stress and activity: Avoid physical activity and stressful activities the day before or on the day of the test, as this can alter cortisol levels.

Sample collection:

Cortisol test usually requires a red tube and blood test requires serum as a sample.

Report delivery time:

Cortisol is a hormonal test and the report delivery time depends on the machine used at the diagnostic center to perform this test.

Vitros 5600, and Vitros Eciq, these machines give very good cortisol hormone results.
After entering this blood test in this machine, it takes 40-50 minutes to give the result.

But sometimes checking is done on other machines to improve the quality of the report. Besides, it takes some time for the report to be signed.

So report delivery time should be within 7-8 hours.

Normal Range:

We give the popular diagnostic center’s cortisol normal levels:

• The morning before 10 AM: 4.458-22.689
• Evening After 5 PM: 1.674-14.009

Reporting unit: ug/dl

If you check here before 10 AM then it is normal if it is between 4.458-22.689.

And if you do it in the afternoon then after 5 pm
Normal if between 1.674-14.009.

However, while viewing the report, you must check the reporting unit because the value of the report may be lower or higher depending on the unit.

Know more lab test normal range: Lab Test Normal Range

What causes high cortisol levels:

Several conditions can increase cortisol levels in the body:

• Stress: Due to physical or mental stress, cortisol secretion increases in the body.
• Cushing’s syndrome: This is a condition where the body produces elevated cortisol.
• Chronic illness: Certain diseases can increase cortisol levels.
• Certain medications: Certain medications can increase cortisol levels.
• Lack of sleep: Lack of sleep can disrupt cortisol regulation, which can increase cortisol.

Conclusion:

Cortisol can be elevated for a variety of reasons. We have to make sure that it can be controlled.
For that, exercise and sleep should be sufficient.
Besides, if it increases due to other problems, you must consult a good doctor.

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