SALIVA CORTISOL TEST

Description

WHAT IS A SALIVA CORTISOL LAB TEST?

The Saliva Cortisol Test measures the level of cortisol in your saliva.

AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?

No.

WHAT IS THE PRICE OF A SALIVA CORTISOL LAB TEST?   

$139.00

*Price may vary by location – contact your local ANY LAB TEST NOW®

DESCRIPTION:

The Saliva Cortisol test is the least invasive way to measure the level of cortisol in the body.  Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and regulated by the hypothalamus, a part of the brain, and the pituitary gland.  Cortisol is a critical hormone that helps to break down fat and protein.  The level of cortisol in the body stimulates liver glucose production and helps to maintain blood pressure and regulate the immune system affecting inflammation.  It also helps us react to physical and emotional stress. Free cortisol, which is unbound to a protein, is found in the urine and in the saliva and cortisol levels normally fluctuate throughout the day, with levels being highest in the morning and lowest after midnight.

High levels of cortisol may be caused by Cushing Syndrome, a relatively rare disorder that could result from taking glucocorticoid-steroids for a prolonged period or an adrenal tumor.

Addison’s disease (primary or secondary) or adrenal insufficiency cause low levels of cortisol and may be a result of an autoimmune response to the adrenal glands or an adrenal tumor.  70% of primary adrenal insufficiency is caused by an autoimmune process that ultimately destroys the adrenal cortex.

WHY DO I NEED I NEED A CORTISOL SALIVA LAB TEST?

Are you having mood swings and trouble sleeping?  Change to your weight?  You may have a cortisol imbalance.

Your hormone levels affect how you feel on a daily basis.  The slightest dysfunction of your hormones can result in increased weight, fatigue, mood changes and sleep disturbances.

Too much cortisol can cause multiple symptoms such as obesity, thirst and excessive urination, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, increased blood sugar, headaches, backaches and even mental symptoms.  Not enough cortisol may cause symptoms including fatigue, muscle weakness, darkened patches on the skin, hypoglycemia, diarrhea or constipation, vomiting or weight loss.  If you are experiencing unusual, unexplained symptoms this test may provide information to help you and your doctor diagnose your condition.

OTHER RELEVANT TESTS:

You may want to Take Control of Your Health by getting a Complete Blood Count (CBC), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel or Male or Female Health Profile.

TEST DETAILS:

NORMAL RANGE:

Varies depending on age and supplementation.

HIGH RESULTS INDICATE:

High results may indicate Cushing syndrome or a tumor or disorder affecting the pituitary or adrenal glands.

LOW RESULTS INDICATE:

Low results may indicate primary or secondary Addison’s disease (or adrenal insufficiency) or a tumor or disorder affecting the pituitary or adrenal glands.

WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN SHOULD I SEE IF MY CORTISOL LEVEL IS ABNORMAL OR OUT OF RANGE?

You should see your primary care physician or an endocrinologist for evaluation of out-of-range test results.