Cortisol and DHEA are parameters for the adrenal glands A high value of cortisol is an indicator of a stressed organism and can cause health issues. Cortisol and DHEA play an important role in the different metabolic processes in the body. In immune processes, cortisol helps with its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect, and has an important function in maintaining the health of the body. Low DHEA levels are suspected to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, osteoporosis, depression, heart disease and obesity. High DHEA levels can cause in women a deeper voice and an increased hair growth all over the body. Possible longtime causes of an increased cortisol level:InsomniaDecreased stress resistanceOverweightDiabetesRisk of burnout and depression Cortisol deficiency Continuing fatigue can be a sign of a cortisol deficiency. Cortisol is vital. Apart from the provision of energy reserves, it also plays a role in the cardiovascular health,gastrointestinal health, the immune system and brain functions. Therefore, low cortisol levels can interfere with general well-being. Test scope Verisana measures your level of cortisol and DHEA and displays if your values are increased or decreased. Hence you receive a so called ‘diurnal profile’ of cortisol, which shows the development of your cortisol values throughout the day, plus your DHEA level. How doews it work? After your order is taken, the test kit will be delivered to you. You collect your samples from the comfort of your home and send it right back to the Verisana Laboratory. After the analysis has been conducted in a CLIA-certified lab, we’ll send you your results via email.