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elevated stress hormones results

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Posted 8/7/2014 3:16 AM (GMT 0)
Took a stress hormones test last week and my doc called me today. Normal reading is 80 - 620. Mine is 660!

He mentioned it could be because I did it the afternoon so the results could be elevated but if I am still concerned, I can take the blood test again in two weeks later, if it is still elevated, he would suggest a scan for any abnormal growth in the body. He has gotten me even more anxious! He ask me to keep taking xanex till I see him again in two weeks.

Gosh, this is driving me crazy!
Posted 8/7/2014 4:40 AM (GMT 0)
F.W.

Go ahead and do the retest. I would be willing to bet that it will be a lower result, and probably within normal readings the second time around.

Try not to worry about it at this time.  Even if your stress hormones are still elevated...I would gues that it is from a mental origin, not a physical one, so you would simply want to continue your stress management.:)


S.C.
Posted 8/7/2014 2:24 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you S.C.

Does PMS contributed to a higher reading? Or i was quite anxious that morning because i discovered a lump (its actually a cyst) on my wrist(!) thus i made a urgent trip to the doc and I also told him about my anxiety, thus he suggested a stress hormones test.
Posted 8/7/2014 5:20 PM (GMT 0)
Here's some reading that you may find interesting/helpful on Coritsol. (this is likely what you were tested on)

As you can see, a lot of factors go into determining levels...and they can flucuate...so I still think a re-test would give you a better indication of what it going on.:)

S.C.

Cortisol’s Cycle:

In humans, cortisol levels follow a circadian rhythm, with levels rising and falling throughout the day, and repeating on a 24-hour cycle. From day to day, depending on different events (of varying stressors) that may occur, levels can vary.
•Peak levels of cortisol generally occur between 6 to 8 AM. 30 to 60 minutes after awakening, there is a surge of cortisol secretion. -The best time to have your blood cortisol level tested is around 8 AM, or soon after rising, following an overnight fast.
•The lowest levels of cortisol occur around midnight, or about 2 to 4 hours after falling asleep.



What Can You Do about It?

Fortunately, lifestyle modifications and stress management techniques can play a significant role in controlling cortisol levels. Identifying how you respond to stress, as well as your personal stressors and relaxants is important. Consider the following tips for coping with stress:
•Exercise regularly
•Eat a healthy diet (think whole foods!) with consistent meal timing
•Get sufficient sleep and rest
•Maintain positive, healthy relationships
•Practice relaxation, whether through yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, listening to music, or laughing
•Reduce or eliminate alcohol and caffeine intake

Taking the Test:

Keep in mind that there are a number of factors that may influence blood cortisol levels. Individuals taking steroid medications, or women who are pregnant or taking estrogen or oral contraceptives may have increased cortisol levels. A recent injury, illness, surgery, or infection, as well as participating in strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to a blood test can also cause high blood cortisol.
Posted 8/7/2014 11:11 PM (GMT 0)
Hmmmmm, never knew such a test was available, my Psychiatrist has never mentioned taking mine, do they usually take it?
Posted 8/8/2014 12:03 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks S.C. it sounds like blood pressure tho.

Brenda, I didn't know about this too. Went to see GP for a cyst on my hand so we talked about anxiety issue, he said my thyroid looks fine. So suggested I take a stress hormones blood test. But for ppl like me with severe anxiety, any elevated readings will cause a panic alarm.
Posted 8/8/2014 11:48 AM (GMT 0)
Fireworks, I have had my thyroid, etc checked also, I may mention it to my Psychiatrist, not sure if it would even make a difference with me, unfortunately I believe my levels would be off the charts. confused
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