Diurnal Cortisol Profile

What this laboratory test evaluates

Cortisol levels should be at their highest level 30 minutes after waking up in the morning, decreasing gradually over the course of the day, reaching their lowest point at bedtime. The resulting curve or pattern allows health care providers to pinpoint issues with adrenal gland function. Alterations in this pattern can results in symptoms related to stress, fatigue and insomnia.

Useful for: • Feeling stressed
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Nervousness/Irritability
• Salt/Sugar cravings
• Dizzy spells
• Headaches
• Decreased stamina
• Burn out
• Chronic disease
• Anxiety/Depression

Additional test information

This profile provides a comprehensive view of HPA axis/adrenal function and includes 4 cortisol levels collected over the course of the day. Samples are collected 30 minutes after waking, before lunch, before dinner, and before bed.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Saliva
• Fasting: No
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should arrive 3 to 5 days after the lab receives samples.

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.