Cortisol Serum Test

What does the Cortisol Test measure?

The cortisol test serves several important medical purposes:

• Evaluates how well your adrenal glands are functioning
• Helps diagnose Cushing's syndrome when cortisol levels are too high
• Detects adrenal insufficiency when cortisol production is too low
• Assesses your body's stress response and daily hormone rhythm
• Monitors the effectiveness of glucocorticoid therapy treatment
• Supports detection of Addison's disease
• Investigates unexplained fatigue and unexplained weight changes
• Aids in assessing pituitary gland function

Cortisol Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for a Cortisol Test?

Your doctor may recommend a cortisol test if you experience symptoms that suggest hormone imbalances:

• Unexplained weight gain, especially around your face and upper back
• High blood pressure that's difficult to control
• Muscle weakness and fatigue
• Mood changes like depression or irritability
• Skin that bruises easily or develops purple stretch marks
• Constant tiredness and unexplained weight loss
• Low blood pressure causing dizziness
• Darkening of your skin, particularly on scars and skin folds
• Craving for salty foods
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

Who should get a Cortisol Test?

Several groups of people may benefit from cortisol testing:

• Patients experiencing symptoms of high or low cortisol levels
• Individuals with suspected adrenal or pituitary gland disorders
• People taking long-term steroid medications like prednisone
• Patients with known tumours affecting hormone-producing glands
• Those undergoing treatment monitoring for diagnosed hormone conditions
• Individuals with unexplained metabolic changes

Why is a Cortisol Test done?

The cortisol test provides doctors with essential information to diagnose serious hormone-related health conditions and guide appropriate treatment decisions for your overall health.

Importance of a Cortisol Test

The cortisol test plays a crucial role in maintaining your health because cortisol affects many vital body functions, including metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure regulation. This test is clinically significant because it helps doctors identify hormone imbalances that could lead to serious health risks or complications if left untreated.

Early detection through cortisol testing enables timely treatment, which can prevent long-term health problems and improve your quality of life. The test also helps doctors monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust medications as needed.

Cortisol Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book a Cortisol Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare app or website. Select the Cortisol Test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is home sample collection for Cortisol Test available near you?

Yes, home blood sample collection is available for the cortisol test. Our trained phlebotomists visit your home at your preferred time, following strict safety protocols to collect your blood sample. This service eliminates travel time and waiting at a pathology lab, making it easier for you to get tested in familiar surroundings. With Metropolis Healthcare's commitment to accessible testing, you can trust that your sample will be handled professionally and processed at our accredited laboratories.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Cortisol Test Report?

Reports are usually available 6 hours after the sample reaches the lab.

Where can I see or get Cortisol Test results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare app to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting Cortisol Test Results

What Your Cortisol Test Results May Indicate

The following table shows the normal range and what abnormal results might suggest:

Conditions that May Affect Cortisol Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your cortisol test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• High biotin supplements (over 5mg daily) taken within 8 hours before testing can interfere with results
• Steroid medications including pills, injections, or creams can significantly alter cortisol levels
• Physical or emotional stress on the day of testing may cause temporary elevation
• Intense exercise immediately before the test can raise cortisol levels
• Certain medications like oestrogen and some anticonvulsants may affect readings
• Dehydration or illness can temporarily increase cortisol production
• Changes in protein levels in your blood can affect total cortisol measurements

How is a Cortisol Test Done?

The cortisol test follows a simple blood collection procedure:

• A healthcare professional cleans the area on your arm, usually inside your elbow
• They tie a band around your upper arm to make the vein more visible
• A small needle is inserted into the vein to collect blood
• Your blood sample is collected into a special tube
• The needle is removed and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding
• The sample is labelled and sent to the laboratory for analysis
• The entire process takes just a few minutes

How Should You Prepare for a Cortisol Test?

Cortisol test preparation requires following a few simple guidelines:

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test
• Timing matters: The test is typically done in the morning around 8 AM when cortisol levels are highest
• Medication review: Inform your doctor about all medications, especially steroids or biotin supplements
• Avoid high biotin: Stop taking biotin supplements over 5mg daily at least 8 hours before testing
• Stay calm: Try to remain relaxed as stress can affect cortisol levels
• Rest beforehand: Avoid intense physical exercise before your appointment

Diseases that a Cortisol Test Can Help Detect

The cortisol test can help identify several important medical conditions:

• Cushing's syndrome caused by excess cortisol production
• Addison's disease resulting from insufficient cortisol
• Primary adrenal insufficiency affecting hormone production
• Secondary adrenal insufficiency due to pituitary problems
• Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic condition
• Adrenal tumours that affect hormone levels
• Pituitary adenomas or carcinomas
• Stress-related hormone disorders

Cortisol Test/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

Here are related tests that can provide comprehensive hormone assessment along with the cortisol test:

Cortisol Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of a cortisol test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities.