Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone,"plays a vital role in managing various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and stress regulation. Monitoring cortisol levels is essential for understanding and addressing health issues related to stress and adrenal function.
Unlike blood tests, which provide a single snapshot of cortisol levels, salivary cortisol testing allows for multiple samples throughout the day. This method captures the natural fluctuations of cortisol, offering a more accurate representation of adrenal function.
Collecting saliva samples is simple, painless, and can be done at home, making it a convenient option for patients. Imbalances in cortisol levels can indicate adrenal fatigue, chronic stress, or adrenal insufficiency. Salivary cortisol testing helps in diagnosing these conditions and guiding appropriate treatment.
By understanding cortisol patterns, healthcare providers can develop personalized strategies to manage stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being.
How Salivary Cortisol Testing Works
Sample Collection:
Patients collect saliva samples at specific times of the day, usually four times: upon waking, before lunch, in the afternoon, and before bedtime. This schedule helps capture the diurnal pattern of cortisol secretion.
Using a provided kit, patients spit into a small tube or use a swab to collect saliva. The process is quick and non-invasive, ensuring minimal discomfort.
Laboratory Analysis:
Hormone Measurement: The collected samples are sent to a specialized laboratory where cortisol levels are measured. Advanced techniques are used to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Diurnal Pattern Evaluation: The lab analyzes the cortisol levels from each sample, providing a comprehensive report that shows the natural rise and fall of cortisol throughout the day.
The lab report includes graphs and detailed data on cortisol levels at each collection point. This information is crucial for identifying patterns and abnormalities.
Our provider will review the report in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and overall health. This thorough analysis helps in diagnosing conditions related to adrenal dysfunction and stress.
Here at NES™, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal health through accurate diagnosis and personalized care. If you experience symptoms of adrenal fatigue, chronic stress, or related issues, consider scheduling a Salivary Cortisol Test.
Take the first step towards getting your thyroid back on track.
Hormonal imbalances are often blamed on stress, age, or reproductive health issues but what if your gut is actually the hidden culprit? Emerging research shows that conditions like Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) don’t just affect digestion; they can disrupt your hormonal systems in surprising and significant ways. This article breaks down how SIBO can […]
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) has become an increasingly popular off-label treatment for autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. With more women of reproductive age using LDN, a key question emerges: Is it safe during pregnancy? Despite growing interest and anecdotal support, the answer is no, there's not enough clinical evidence to confirm LDN's safety in pregnancy. […]
Yes—castor oil may offer supportive benefits for those with Hashimoto’s, but it is not a cure or standalone treatment. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland, often leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, hair thinning, mood fluctuations, and digestive discomfort. While standard medical care typically includes thyroid […]
Have you ever found yourself dealing with brain fog, fatigue, or strange aches that no one can quite explain? Maybe you’ve gone to doctors, tried new diets, even switched up your sleep routine. Sometimes the answer isn’t in the usual places. It might be in your mouth, tucked away in those old silver fillings you […]
Dr. Linda Khoshaba is the Leading Integrative Health and Hormone Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona. She has extensive experience working in the field as a Hormone Specialist and Natural Endocrinologist.
Phone: 480-687-0054 Fax: 833-605-1101 Email: contact@nesaz.com Address: Suite A 109 7500 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Hours of Operation: Mon: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Tue: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Wed: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM Thu: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Fri: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Sat-Sun: Closed
This Site may include a variety of features, such as health tips and videos, services provided at Natural Endocrinology Specialists™, our online Supplement store, NESAZ Programs, email, and patient portal services. DISCLAIMER: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These programs and products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information contained herein is for informational purposes. Please be sure to consult your doctor before taking this or any other product/program. Consult your doctor for any health problems or before starting a new program.