Cortisol, Saliva (2 Specimens)

Cortisol is a hormone that is secreted from the adrenal glands in a diurnal rhythm of secretion, meaning it levels peak around the same time in the morning and decreases as the day progresses. This hormone is plays a big role in multiple important bodily functions, such as in the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and proteins, the regulation of blood glucose and blood pressure and well as maintenance and regulation of the immune system. Cortisol tests are used to for the diagnosis of Cushings disease, which is too much cortisol, or Addisons disease, which is too little cortisol. Cortisol can be tested in multiple ways.

This test provides a measurement of Cortisol levels on 2 saliva samples. Saliva testing can provide just as accurate a measurement of adrenal hormones like Cortisol as a blood test can.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Hypertension (Cushings)
• High blood sugar
• Obesity
• Purple streaks on the abdomen
• Muscle wasting and weakness
• Osteoporosis
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Low blood pressure (Addisons)
• Abdominal pain
• Dark patches of skin