Know Your Blood Parameters: Cortisol

1. Parameter Name

   Cortisol

   
   

2. Test Type

   Blood / Saliva / Urine

   
   

3. Normal Range

   Morning blood cortisol: 6 – 23 mcg/dL

   Evening blood cortisol: 3 – 13 mcg/dL

   
   

4. High Levels Indicate

   Cushing's syndrome, stress, steroid use, adrenal tumors.

   
   

5. Low Levels Indicate

   Addison's disease, adrenal insufficiency, pituitary dysfunction.

   
   

6. Why It's Tested

   To assess adrenal gland function, diagnose Cushing’s or Addison’s disease, and evaluate stress response.

   
   

7. Associated Symptoms (if abnormal)

   High: Weight gain, hypertension, mood changes, muscle weakness.

   Low: Fatigue, hypotension, weight loss, hyperpigmentation.

   
   

8. What To Do If Abnormal

   Confirm with dexamethasone suppression or ACTH stimulation tests; endocrinology referral.

   
   

9. Common Conditions Related

   Cushing's syndrome, Addison's disease, adrenal insufficiency.

   
   

10. Nutrition or Lifestyle Connection

    Manage stress, avoid excess caffeine, maintain balanced diet.

    
    

11. References (APA Format)

Melmed, S. et al. (2016). Williams Textbook of Endocrinology (13th ed.). Elsevier.

MedlinePlus. (2023). Cortisol Test. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/cortisol-test/