Understanding Diurnal Cortisol Test: Essentials, Steps, and Costs
Diurnal cortisol testing measures the hormone cortisol, a biomarker for stress, throughout a person's day using saliva samples. By analyzing a diurnal cortisol curve, healthcare professionals can identify any abnormal changes in cortisol levels and potential underlying health issues.
Improper cortisol regulation might indicate adrenal dysfunction, which can lead to various symptoms such as chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, unexplained weight changes, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, low blood pressure, depression, irritability, joint pain, salty food cravings, low blood sugar, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular periods, and loss of libido.
To perform a diurnal cortisol test, individuals collect saliva samples at specific intervals throughout the day. These samples are then sent to a lab for analysis to create a diurnal cortisol curve. While preparation guidelines may differ, common considerations include rinsing the mouth or brushing the teeth 30 minutes before each saliva collection, avoiding food and drinks, and avoiding smoking for a few hours before each collection.
Understanding diurnal cortisol test results requires knowing the typical diurnal curve: cortisol levels peak in the morning and gradually decrease throughout the day. Abnormal cortisol levels may raise concerns for mental and physical health issues, including depression, fatigue, cardiovascular disease, obesity, cancer, and immune conditions.
The costs of different cortisol tests can vary depending on several factors. Before purchasing, check with your insurance provider to determine if the tests are covered. Some potential risks of salivary cortisol tests include inaccuracies from erratic sleep schedules or work shifts, making late-night samples unreliable.
If you suspect you need a diurnal cortisol test due to chronic fatigue, stress, or adrenal dysfunction symptoms, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a complete diagnosis and recommend reputable test brands.
A congenital condition affecting the adrenal glands could potentially lead to adrenal hyperplasia, causing an imbalance in cortisol production. In some cases, this condition may present with symptoms similar to adrenal dysfunction.
Inappropriate regulation of cortisol, often seen in adrenal hyperplasia, may result in a variety of symptoms, such as irregular periods, joint pain, and salty food cravings.