High Cortisol: What It Means and What to Do Next
High cortisol (above 19.4 mcg/dL morning level) may indicate chronic stress, Cushing's syndrome, or corticosteroid medication effects. A single elevated reading should be confirmed, as cortisol fluctuates throughout the day and can rise from the stress of a blood draw itself.
What Causes High Cortisol?
Chronic Stress
Prolonged physical or psychological stress is the most common cause of mildly elevated cortisol.
Cushing's Syndrome
A condition caused by prolonged exposure to high cortisol, from pituitary tumors, adrenal tumors, or exogenous steroids.
Corticosteroid Medications
Prednisone, dexamethasone, and other steroid medications directly raise cortisol levels.
Depression and Anxiety
Both conditions are associated with dysregulated cortisol production and can cause elevated morning levels.
Associated Symptoms
What to Do Next
1. Retest to confirm
A single abnormal result should be confirmed with a repeat test. Temporary factors like stress, illness, or medications can affect results.
2. Related tests to consider
3. When to see a doctor
If your Cortisol is significantly abnormal, if you have severe symptoms, or if repeated results confirm the abnormality, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Related Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for interpretation of your results.
Content reviewed for accuracy by the JustLabs editorial team.