A Cortisol test measures the amount of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands. This test helps determine if you have too much or too little of this hormone.

Cortisol, also referred to as the stress hormone, affects almost every organ and helps to manage stress, reduce inflammation, regulate blood sugar and metabolism, and control blood pressure. It is produced by the adrenal glands, which are controlled by a hormone from the pituitary gland in your brain. Abnormal cortisol levels could signal issues with the adrenal or pituitary glands or a tumour affecting cortisol production.

There are several important factors to consider before undergoing a Cortisol (Random) test:

• Prerequisites : No fasting is required for the test. However, if your doctor has ordered additional tests, he/she will provide you with detailed instructions on whether you should fast before the test.

• Best Time to Get Tested : As fasting is not required, this test can be done at any time of the day. It is important to remember that your cortisol levels are highest in the morning.

• Who Should Get a Cortisol Test Done?

Your doctor may request a Cortisol (Random) test after a careful assessment of your symptoms and your condition. This test may be recommended if you have symptoms of adrenal disorders such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss or gain, muscle weakness, or mood changes or to evaluate your body’s response to stress.

• Cautions Before Doing the Cortisol Test: There is no special preparation required before the test. Stress can increase your cortisol levels; therefore, it might be beneficial to get some rest before your test. It is recommended that you inform your doctor about any supplements or medications that you take, as they may affect your test results.

A Cortisol (Random) test measures your cortisol levels at any time of the day without considering the usual daily fluctuations. This test can be useful for several reasons:

• To evaluate adrenal function : If you experience symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or mood changes, a random cortisol test can help determine if your adrenal glands are functioning properly.

• Early diagnosis : It helps diagnose conditions related to cortisol imbalances, such as Cushing's syndrome (high cortisol levels) or Addison's disease (low cortisol levels).

• Evaluation of stress response : Since cortisol is known as the "stress hormone," this test can provide insights into how your body manages stress

• Monitoring Treatment : If you're being treated for a condition that affects cortisol levels, this test can help evaluate how well the treatment is working.

The Cortisol test is helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as adrenal disorders (e.g., Cushing’s syndrome and Addison’s disease).

An accurate interpretation of your Cortisol test results is crucial for diagnosing and managing health conditions. The test results can be interpreted as follows:

High cortisol levels might indicate Cushing's syndrome, which may be caused by long-term steroid use, tumours in the pituitary or adrenal glands, or other issues.

Low cortisol levels could signal Addison's disease or secondary adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol production due to factors outside of the adrenal gland), with causes including autoimmune diseases, infections, or stopping steroid use abruptly.

The concentration of cortisol in the blood reaches its peak between 8 and 9 a.m. and falls off to its lowest around midnight. Typically, concentrations are high in individuals on high-dose oestrogen therapy and during pregnancy.

It is important to note that various factors such as stress, pregnancy, exercise, illness, temperature changes, thyroid issues, obesity, and some medications can also affect cortisol levels. Moreover, a Cortisol test alone cannot pinpoint the exact cause of abnormal cortisol levels; therefore, additional tests may be recommended by your doctor. For an accurate interpretation of your results, it is best to consult your doctor.