Cortisol blood, saliva and urine tests
Explanation
Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands above the kidneys. This chemical messenger helps control blood pressure, blood sugar and the response to stress. Cortisol tests use blood, saliva or urine to investigate whether the body is making an appropriate amount.
Why are timing and sample type important?
Cortisol normally changes throughout the day. Levels are generally higher in the morning and lower later on. A result must be compared with the range for that test and collection time.
Some tests use a sample collected at a set time. Others measure cortisol in urine collected over 24 hours. Follow the specific instructions, since these samples answer different questions.
What else can affect the result?
Stress, exercise, pregnancy and medicines can affect cortisol testing. Tell your clinician about all medicines, including steroid tablets, inhalers or creams. Do not stop prescribed treatment without advice.
An abnormal value alone does not establish a hormone disorder or its cause. Further tests may be needed to assess the pattern and how the adrenal glands respond to signals from the brain.
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