Description
The Adrenal Stress Blood Test is designed to assess the function of your adrenal glands—commonly referred to as the body’s “stress glands.” These glands produce hormones that regulate your response to both physical and emotional stress. This panel evaluates two key biomarkers, Cortisol and DHEA, to provide insight into how your body is coping with ongoing stress and whether adrenal imbalance may be contributing to symptoms.
Biomarkers Included in This Panel:
Cortisol
- A vital stress-response hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
- Elevated cortisol levels are linked to:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Weight gain (especially abdominal)
- Sugar cravings
- Bone loss
- Chronic stress can lead to sustained high cortisol, contributing to burnout and metabolic dysfunction.
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
- A precursor hormone to estrogen and testosterone, also produced by the adrenal glands.
- Low DHEA levels may indicate:
- Adrenal fatigue or insufficiency
- Addison’s disease
- Pituitary dysfunction (hypopituitarism)
- Effects from long-term steroid (glucocorticoid) use
Related Symptoms of Adrenal Dysfunction:
- Persistent fatigue
- Headaches or brain fog
- Sleep disturbances
- Unexplained weight gain
- Muscle aches
- Cravings for sugar or salt
- Mood changes (depression, irritability)
- Poor concentration or mental clarity
Fasting Requirement:
- Fasting is NOT required for this test
- Can be done at any time of day, though some providers may prefer a morning blood draw for optimal cortisol assessment
Why This Panel Is Important:
- Helps determine how your body is responding to chronic or acute stress
- Identifies imbalances in adrenal hormones that may be affecting energy, weight, and mood
- Supports early detection of adrenal conditions before they progress
- Informs treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, stress management, or hormone support
