CORTISOL STRESS PROFILE
This test provides an assessment of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis using carefully timed salivary samples of the hormones cortisol and DHEA. Salivary testing is an easy, non-invasive option to measure unbound, biologically active parent hormone levels. The report offers an easy-to-interpret graphic that plots the results of the natural diurnal rhythm.
Daily hassles, chronic pain, blood sugar dysregulation, work stressors, and poor relationship quality can alter the HPA axis. Imbalances in adrenal hormones can have a wide range of negative consequences that can adversely impact a patient's overall quality of life.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
- Gastrointestinal and immune dysregulation
- Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- Depression
- Chronic fatigue
- Persistent pain
- Neurodegenerative disease and cognitive decline
Adrenocortex Stress Profile testing can reveal HPA axis imbalances and provide direction for clinical intervention with targeted therapeutic treatments such as nutrient support and/or adaptogens, stress management, behavioral modification and lifestyle interventions.
Four salivary samples measured throughout the day give insight into the natural circadian diurnal cortisol rhythm and help clinicians address specific daily stressors. DHEA is measured once in the 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM sample and a ratio of DHEA to cortisol is calculated to provide insight into anabolic/catabolic balance. Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) includes two awakening samples to evaluate CAR. CAR is a transient, immediate rise in cortisol upon awakening and is distinct from the diurnal rhythm. CAR reflects a person's ability to cope with anticipated challenges and their perception of control around chronic stress, providing insight into HPA axis resiliency.
Analytes:
- Cortisol
- DHEA
Patient preparation
- The following drugs and supplements may influence hormone levels reported in this test:
- Ketoconazole, clomiphene, phenytoin, steroids, and DHEA supplementation.
- Never discontinue prescription medication without first consulting your physician.
- Do NOT eat or drink anything except water for one hour prior to EACH collection.
A kit will be sent to you by mail with a Test and instructions on how to perform the test yourself. Once completed, a booking can be made for DHL to collect the kit (with no additional charges), and it will be delivered to the laboratory for testing.
Average processing time:
18-21 days
What will I receive after the test has been processed?
A report will then be generated and sent via email with detailed information about the tested areas and recommended interventions. Please see HERE a sample of the report that you can browse.
What happens after I receive the results?
An appointment will be booked with the doctor to further discuss the test results. The appointment will last between 30 to 60 minutes, in which the doctor will analyze your test results and will provide insight and further advice.
*The doctor’s service — result analysis, consultation, and a treatment plan with recommendations — is booked separately.
*Please note that the treatment plan is a guidance document and does not include the treatment itself.
