- 1x Finger prick lancets
- 1x Blood collection tube
- 1x Protective transport tube
- 1x Alcohol wipes and plasters
- 1x Step-by-step instructions
- 1x Pre-paid Royal Mail Tracked 24 Return Envelope
Cortisol Blood Test Kit – At-Home Use
Description
The Cortisol (9am) Home Blood Test Kit screens cortisol levels to monitor biomarkers associated with the stress response and adrenal function. Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is vital to survival given its role in functions such as immunity, regulating blood pressure, and releasing insulin for blood sugar maintenance. Cortisol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the early morning and declining through the day, which is why this test must be taken between 6am and 10am for accurate results.
This test is ideal for those wishing to monitor their morning cortisol levels for wellness and screening purposes, particularly if you have symptoms of an adrenal function disorder, or if your healthcare advisor has recommended a 9am cortisol test as an initial investigation. Levels outside the reference range may require further clinical investigation with your GP. However, it's important to note that whilst this test can tell you if your cortisol level is outside the normal range, it cannot pinpoint the cause, so further investigation with your GP may be needed.
All-inclusive price: Includes home collection kit, laboratory analysis, and pre-paid return shipping. No additional clinic fees are required for this finger-prick test.
Samples are processed by The Doctors Laboratory (TDL), which holds UKAS accreditation to ISO 15189 standards.
Home Test Kit: Sample Collection and Return
For a successful analysis, it is crucial that you adhere to the provided instructions for sample collection. Please read all documentation included in your kit before you begin.
Key Steps for Your Home Test Kit:
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the step-by-step guide for collecting your sample. Improper collection may lead to an invalid result.
- Use Prepaid Envelope: Return your collected sample using the prepaid and pre-addressed envelope provided in your kit.
- Optimal Return-Shipping Days: To avoid potential delays at the laboratory, we strongly recommend mailing your sample on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. Please do not send your sample on weekends or public holidays, as this can compromise the integrity of the sample due to transit and processing delays.
What is included in your kit?
Special Instructions
Laboratory Requirement – Sample Timing: Take your sample between 6am and 10am to ensure valid screening results. If you have an unusual sleep pattern, your cortisol results may be unreliable. If you must test, do so within 2 hours of waking and inform us in the supporting information.
Factors Affecting Results: It is essential to take your cortisol level test between 6am and 10am, as samples collected outside this window will be interpreted against the incorrect reference range by our laboratory. Women taking hormonal contraceptives may have elevated cortisol levels. Steroid medication such as prednisolone can also affect your cortisol level.
Further Investigation: Although a cortisol blood test can tell you if your cortisol level is outside the normal range, it cannot pinpoint the cause. It's important to see your GP if your level is abnormally high or low, as this may indicate a condition that needs treatment. Even if your result is normal, you may still have an adrenal condition. If you have symptoms that concern you, you should visit your GP who will likely request further tests.
Biomarkers Tested (1)
Adrenal hormones 1
Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It is vital to survival given its role in functions such as immunity, regulating blood pressure, and releasing insulin for blood sugar maintenance. Cortisol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the early morning (around 6-10am) and declining through the day. High cortisol levels may indicate Cushing's syndrome, chronic stress, or use of steroid medications, whilst low cortisol levels may indicate Addison's disease or adrenal insufficiency. Women taking hormonal contraceptives may have elevated cortisol levels.
Medical Disclaimer
This blood test is intended for informational and screening purposes only. It does not constitute a clinical diagnosis, medical advice, or treatment recommendation.
Your test results should be reviewed and interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. We strongly recommend that you share your results with your GP or an appropriate medical practitioner who can assess them in the context of your overall health, medical history, and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
If your results indicate values outside of the normal range, or if you have any concerns about your health, please consult your doctor promptly. Do not make changes to any prescribed medications or treatments based solely on these results without first speaking to your healthcare provider.
Know Your Numbers
See what’s happening inside with a comprehensive results summary. Use our kits to get a clear picture of your vitals and stay informed about your body’s baseline.
Features:
- Informative summaries
- Helpful resources
- Individualised markers
Your markers, clearly mapped
Understand your data Get a comprehensive breakdown of your internal levels. Our kits provide a structured results summary that translates lab data into a clear format, helping you stay informed about your body's current markers.
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