Cortisol (C) - Blood Spot Test Kit - Single Test in Blood Spot

Why Cortisol Test Is Used

Cortisol testing may be ordered if a physician suspects certain disorders such as Cushing’s syndrome. This is sometimes found in individuals with high levels of cortisol. Symptoms suggestive of this may include:

• Elevated blood pressure
• High blood sugar
• Obesity, with weight distributed around the trunk
• Weak muscles
• Purple streaking around the abdomen
• Osteoporosis
• Skin that’s easily broken

Cortisol levels may be examined in women with irregular menstrual periods and the presence of facial hair and in children slow to develop and short in stature. Testing may also be done when either adrenal insufficiency is suspected, or a condition known as Addison’s disease. In cases such as these, cortisol levels are too low and individuals may experience:

• Loss of weight
• Weakness in muscles
• Fatigue
• Lowered blood pressure
• Pain in the abdomen
• Patches of darkened skin (Addison’s disease)

A decrease in cortisol production, in addition to a stressful event or crisis could trigger a life-threatening adrenal event requiring emergency medical attention. Symptoms of such an event may include:

• Severe pain in the legs, abdomen, or lower back that is sudden
• Vomiting and diarrhea, that results in dehydration
• Drop-in blood pressure
• Loss of consciousness

Cortisol Testing Education: Cortisol Testing