Endocrine / Hormones
Also known as: Blood cortisol, Plasma cortisol, Cortisol serum
Symptoms like extreme fatigue, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or unexplained weight loss, especially if sudden, could indicate a serious issue with cortisol levels and warrant immediate medical attention. No common urgent flag from this test alone.
This test checks how much cortisol is in your blood. We usually take this blood in the morning. Cortisol is a hormone your adrenal glands make. It helps your body handle stress. It also helps control your blood sugar and blood pressure.
Doctors order this test to see if your body has too much or too little cortisol. This helps them find problems with your adrenal glands or pituitary gland. These glands control how much cortisol your body makes.
Cortisol levels naturally change throughout the day, being highest in the morning. Reference ranges can vary significantly between different laboratories and may also depend on factors like age, sex, and specific clinical context. Always refer to the ranges provided by your lab.
Clinical Reference
175932200084443Medicare covers for nutritional deficiency evaluation
Educational purposes only — This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always discuss your lab results with your healthcare provider.