Description
Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is responsible for a wide range of processes within the body including immune responses, the regulation of metabolism, and acting as an anti-inflammatory. It also plays an important role in the way in which the body responds to stress.
This lab test includes:
- Saliva collection tube for Cortisol (C)
The balance of cortisol levels that are present within the body at any one time is extremely important for our overall health. Having too much and too little cortisol in your system can cause a number of issues that range from minor to serious. individuals who have an extremely low amount of cortisol are susceptible to experiencing problems such as dizziness, fatigue, weight loss.
Symptoms of high cortisol include: rapid weight gain, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, mood swings, anxiety and depression, impaired cognitive function (fuzzy brain), dampened thyroid function, blood sugar imbalances and poor sleep.
Symptoms of very low cortisol include: dizziness, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, dark rings under the eyes, palpitations and cravings for salty food.
