Low Cortisol: What It Means and What to Do Next
Low cortisol (below 6.2 mcg/dL morning level) may indicate adrenal insufficiency, where the adrenal glands produce inadequate cortisol. This warrants medical evaluation, as cortisol is essential for blood pressure, immunity, and stress response. Causes include Addison's disease, pituitary dysfunction, and steroid withdrawal.
What Causes Low Cortisol?
Addison's Disease
Autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands. The most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency.
Pituitary Dysfunction
The pituitary gland fails to produce enough ACTH to stimulate cortisol production (secondary adrenal insufficiency).
Steroid Withdrawal
Abruptly stopping long-term corticosteroid medication can suppress your adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol.
Adrenal Fatigue Pattern
Chronic stress may eventually deplete adrenal reserves, though this is debated in conventional medicine.
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.