Stress Testing

Detect Hidden Stress with Cortisol Screening
Did you know? Over 63% of people in the UK feel stressed every week—a big increase from 2018 when it was just a third. Only 6% of people say they are stress-free, with women (24.52%) more likely than men (15.33%) to experience daily stress.

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See your Cortisol levels in 15 mins!

Feeling persistently fatigued? It might not just be stress. Low cortisol levels can lead to extreme tiredness and other health issues. This rare condition affects about 9,000 people in the UK.

What to Expect During Your Cortisol Test

Getting Ready

Cortisol testing is done early in the morning when it is at its greatest level. You may be asked to skip vigorous exercise the day before to ensure accurate results..

Collecting the Sample

A tiny blood sample is taken by finger prick. This process is quick and minimally invasive.

Running the Test

Your blood is put on a test card and analysed by sophisticated machine devices.

Waiting for Results

The whole test takes 15 minutes. Relax while the analysis is done.

Understanding Your Results

Your cortisol levels will be given and their relevance to your health explained.

Next Steps

You may need additional tests, lifestyle changes or treatments based on these results to control your cortisol levels.

Symptoms Indicating a Need for Cortisol Testing

Rapid Weight Gain

Sudden, unaccounted weight gain around the abdomen, face and upper back.

Fatty Hump Between Shoulders

Fat accumulation at the base of the neck creating a "buffalo hump."

High Blood Pressure

Persistent hypertension, often resistant to standard treatments.

High Blood Sugar Levels

Increased glucose levels, which may lead to prediabetes or diabetes.

Weak Bones

Increased risk of fractures or bone pain due to cortisol’s impact on bone density.

Anxiety or Depression

Emotional symptoms include feeling anxious, irritable or consistently down.

Irregular Periods

Menstrual cycle disruptions often accompanying other hormonal imbalances.

Nausea

Persistent feelings of queasiness, often accompanied by vomiting.

Fatigue

Ongoing exhaustion and lack of energy, even after rest or sleep.

Understand Your Stress Levels with Cortisol Screening

Feeling constantly tired and stressed after rest? These could be signals of low cortisol – your body’s main stress hormone. A simple Cortisol Screening at KP Pharma can pinpoint the cause of these symptoms & help you get back in balance. Cortisol controls your energy, metabolism and response to stress.

Manage Stress Effectively:

Identify imbalances in cortisol levels that impact your energy and stress response.

Support Hormonal Health:

Ensure your adrenal glands are functioning properly to maintain overall hormonal balance.

Prevent Long-Term Issues:

Early detection of cortisol irregularities can help avoid conditions like adrenal fatigue or Cushing’s syndrome.

Improve Daily Functioning:

Regulate cortisol to enhance sleep, metabolism, and your ability to handle physical and emotional stress.

Monitoring Health with the HbA1c Test

The HbA1c test, also known as the glycated haemoglobin test, provides an average of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months beyond the daily fluctuations.

What Is Cortisol?

Cortisol is a steroid hormone released by your adrenal glands in response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is secreted by the pituitary gland. It impacts numerous systems in your body, including:

Bone Growth: Supports bone development and repair.
Blood Pressure Control: Keep blood pressure steady.
Immune System Function: Regulates inflammation & immune responses.
Metabolism: Fats, carbohydrates and proteins are broken down for energy.
Nervous System Function: It affects mood, memory and neurological health.
Stress Response: Preparation for physical and emotional challenges.

Factors That Affect Cortisol Levels

Medications: Some drugs like estrogen-containing contraceptives or synthetic glucocorticoids (prednisone) raise cortisol levels.

Stress: Physical or emotional stress increases cortisol.

Pregnancy: Some women have naturally increased cortisol during pregnancy.

Understanding Your Cortisol Test Results

Below is an interpretation of the markers measured, their normal ranges and results.

Time of day	Cortisol level nmol/L	What It Means for Your Health
Morning	171 - 536 nmol/L	Normal: Indicates typical morning cortisol levels. Retest annually or sooner if symptoms of imbalance arise.
	537 - 700 nmol/L	Elevated: May indicate acute stress or temporary hormone imbalance. Retest in 1–2 weeks.
	More than 700 nmol/L	High: Suggests significant stress or long-term hormone issues. Immediate evaluation is recommended.
Afternoon	64 - 327 nmol/L	Normal: Reflects expected afternoon cortisol decline. Retest annually as part of routine health checks.
	328 - 500 nmol/L	Elevated: Prolonged stress or disrupted hormone patterns may be present. Retest in 1–2 weeks to confirm.
	More than 500 nmol/L	High: Indicates abnormal hormone levels. Seek medical advice for further assessment.
Evening	Less than 100 nmol/L	Normal: Reflects healthy evening cortisol levels. Retest in 1–2 years unless symptoms arise.
	101 - 150 nmol/L	Elevated: Suggests chronic stress or disrupted hormone rhythms. Retest in 1–2 weeks.
	More than 150 nmol/L	High: Indicates significant hormone abnormalities. Immediate evaluation and retesting are required.