AM Cortisol
AM Cortisol
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The AM Cortisol test measures cortisol levels in the morning when they are typically at their highest. Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal glands, playing a significant role in stress response, metabolism, and immune function. Abnormal morning cortisol levels can indicate issues such as adrenal insufficiency or Cushing's syndrome. Understanding your AM cortisol levels can help you and your healthcare provider assess adrenal function and overall hormonal balance, guiding appropriate interventions.
Reasons to Check It:
Reasons to Check It:
"Cortisol is an important steroid hormone that regulates numerous body systems including the response to infection and inflammation, blood sugar, and bone metabolism. It is often referred to as the stress hormone because it increases blood pressure and blood sugar, and reduces the immune response. Typically, cortisol levels vary throughout the day. It is highest in the morning and lowest before bedtime. Birth control pills can indirectly increase cortisol levels by increasing corticotrophin-binding globulin (the carrier protein for cortisol). Thus, if you are taking birth control pills, an elevated cortisol level may not be a health concern. The most common causes of an inappropriate low morning cortisol level may be either sleep problems or chronic stress."- Dr. Alan Hopkins
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