Adrenal Stress Test – Cortisol & DHEA-S

About this test

Understanding Cortisol and DHEA-S Levels

This test measures cortisol and DHEA-S using a small blood sample. These hormones are commonly analyzed together to provide a broader overview of adrenal-related hormone levels. Results are delivered in a secure digital report for easy access.

Why Cortisol and DHEA-S Matter

• Cortisol and DHEA-S are two key hormones produced by the adrenal glands that are involved in normal hormone regulation.

• Cortisol plays a role in a range of everyday physiological processes, while DHEA-S is another hormone commonly measured alongside cortisol to provide additional context.

• Measuring both hormones together provides a broader overview of adrenal-related hormone levels.

Comprehensive Insights, Conveniently Delivered

Our at-home test uses a simple finger-prick blood sample to measure cortisol and DHEA-S. Blood-based testing provides a direct measurement of these hormone levels, with samples processed in CLIA-certified laboratories. Results are delivered securely online.

Simple At-Home Testing Process

1. Order Your Kit
   Receive your discreetly packaged at-home collection kit.

2. Collect Your Sample
   Use the included instructions to collect a small finger-prick blood sample in minutes.

3. Send to Lab
   Mail your sample to our CLIA-certified laboratory using the prepaid return envelope.

4. Get Your Results
   Access your results securely online with clear explanations and reference ranges for each marker.

Biomarkers included

• DHEA-S: DHEA-S is a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to sex hormones, including androgens and estrogens. Compared with DHEA, DHEA-S is more stable in the bloodstream and is therefore commonly measured to evaluate adrenal androgen production. Levels typically peak in early adulthood and gradually decline with age. Elevated DHEA-S may be seen in conditions associated w
• Cortisol: Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, known as the body's primary stress hormone. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure, making its levels important for assessing stress response and adrenal function.

How to prepare

The sample should be collected in the morning, before 10:00 AM, on an empty stomach.

Frequently asked questions

What specifically does the Adrenal Stress Test measure, and why are Cortisol and DHEA-S significant?

The Adrenal Stress Test is a comprehensive at-home blood test designed to measure two critical adrenal hormones: Cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). Cortisol, often termed the 'stress hormone', plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and the body’s reaction to stress. DHEA-S, in contrast, is an androgen precursor that often counteracts cortisol's effects, contributing to overall well-being and hormonal balance. Measuring both provides a nuanced understanding of your body's adrenal function and stress response.

How does the Adrenal Stress Test 'at-home' blood test work, and what are the sample requirements?

Our Adrenal Stress Test utilizes a convenient at-home blood collection method, typically a simple finger-prick sample. This process is designed for ease of use, allowing you to collect your sample comfortably from your own home. Detailed instructions are provided within the test kit to ensure proper collection technique, and the sample is then securely sent to our CLIA-certified laboratories for precise analysis, reflecting our commitment to diagnostic reliability.

Who should consider taking the Adrenal Stress Test, and what symptoms might indicate an imbalance?

Individuals experiencing persistent fatigue, inexplicable weight changes, sleep disturbances, mood fluctuations, or chronic stress symptoms may benefit significantly from the Adrenal Stress Panel. This test is ideal for those seeking to understand the underlying hormonal contributions to their energy levels and stress response. By uncovering potential imbalances in Cortisol and DHEA-S, the panel provides crucial insights for optimizing health and overall well-being.

How accurate and reliable are the results from this blood-based adrenal test compared to other methods?

Our Adrenal Stress Test relies on blood-based testing for superior accuracy and reliability, particularly for DHEA-S stability and capturing a precise snapshot of cortisol levels. This method is often preferred over saliva for certain adrenal hormone assessments due to its direct measurement of circulating hormones. All analyses are conducted in CLIA-certified laboratories, ensuring that your results are highly dependable and clinically relevant, offering peace of mind regarding your health insights.

What is the typical turnaround time for results, and what should I expect regarding interpretation and next steps?

Once your sample arrives at our CLIA-certified lab, you can generally expect your personalized Adrenal Stress Test results within 2-5 business days. Your comprehensive results report will clearly outline your Cortisol and DHEA-S levels, contextualized within optimal ranges. Beyond just raw numbers, the report includes actionable insights and guidance. While we recommend discussing these with your healthcare provider, we also offer resources, such as access to our practitioner directory, to help you understand your results and formulate next steps towards optimized well-being, even if you don't currently have a doctor.

What is included in the price of the Adrenal Stress Test, and are there any hidden fees?

The price of the Adrenal Stress Panel is all-inclusive, covering the at-home blood collection kit, detailed instructions, prepaid shipping to our CLIA-certified laboratory, the precise analysis of your Cortisol and DHEA-S levels, and a comprehensive, easy-to-understand results report. There are no hidden fees. Our commitment is entirely transparent, providing you with a complete solution for understanding your adrenal health.

Customer reviews

4.5/5 (2)

• 4/5 — I purchased this test because I've been under a lot of stress lately and wanted to see if it was impacting my hormones. The kit arrived quickly, and the process of collecting the blood sample was simple enough, just followed the steps provided. Results came back within the stated timeframe, which was helpful. It gave me a good baseline understanding of my cortisol and DHEA-S levels. While it didn't magically solve my stress, it definitely provided valuable data to discuss with my doctor and made me more aware of my body's responses. A solid, convenient option for at-home testing.
• 5/5 — I've been dealing with chronic fatigue and feeling 'off' for what feels like forever. My doctor didn't really have any answers, so I decided to try this Adrenal Stress Panel. The at-home collection was straightforward, though I did have to remember to do it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. The instructions were clear, and the finger-prick wasn't too bad. I sent it off and received my results within two business days. Learning about my Cortisol and DHEA-S levels gave me some much-needed insight into what might be contributing to my symptoms. It's a great starting point for furthe