Cortisol

What is a Cortisol Test?

Cortisol is released into your bloodstream through the adrenal glands when your body reacts to stress. It is commonly known as the stress hormone. A Cortisol test collects a blood sample to investigate your body’s cortisol levels.

Why should I consider a Cortisol test?

You should consider our Cortisol test if you are experiencing intense feelings of anxiety, stress, or irritability. Constant stress causes extensive cortisol exposure in the body, which can eventually result in health issues including depression, anxiety, obesity, and heart disease.

Adrenal gland disorders can also be diagnosed through examination of Cortisol levels. These serious conditions can result from varying exposure to Cortisol, such as Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease.

Excessive Cortisol output can cause the following symptoms:

• Obesity, often accumulating around the torso

• High blood pressure

• High blood sugar

• Muscle weakness

• Red and swollen face

Symptoms of low levels Cortisol levels include:

• Fatigue

• Weight loss and loss of appetite

• Nausea and vomiting

• Low blood pressure

• Muscle weakness

How does the home test work?

The test kit is sent to your home, where you use the provided tools to extract a blood sample. You then use the pre-paid postage envelope to send your sample to one of our accredited Ireland labs, where we quickly analyse your sample to provide accurate results regarding your cortisol levels.

Reference ranges for Cortisol are for a sample taken between 6.00 am and 10.00 am, or at midnight. Cortisol levels are higher when you first wake up and then fall steadily during the day. It is suggested that you collect your sample at one of these times if you want to compare it to the reference range.

When will my home test arrive?

When you order a kit before end of business hours Monday-Friday, your kit will be sent out on the same day via An Post. You will receive your kit within 2 to 4 days, depending on your location.

How do I receive my test results?

Within one workday after your sample is received by our lab, your results will be ready and can be accessed through the secure patient portal on our website. In addition, a member of our Patient Services team will contact you directly to discuss your results.

What should I do about my test results?

If your test results detect high Cortisol levels, Better2Know can help you arrange a private consultation with a doctor from our network of clinics throughout Ireland. Meeting with a healthcare professional to further discuss your results is crucial, whether it is a doctor recommended by Better2Know or your own GP.

How do I order my test kit?

On this test kit page, you can select ‘Add to Cart’ and proceed to checkout. Alternatively, you can process your order over the phone with a member of our Patient Services team. Our trained professionals are available 24/7 to assist you and answer any questions you may have.