was bedeutet low cortisol — when to see a doctor?

Low cortisol (hypocortisolism) can indicate adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) or secondary causes. Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, nausea, and skin hyperpigmentation. However, a single low reading is not diagnostic – cortisol levels fluctuate diurnally and are affected by stress, sleep, and medications. See a doctor if low values persist with symptoms, or if you have recently stopped corticosteroid therapy (e.g., for asthma or arthritis). Diagnosis requires an ACTH stimulation test, not just a blood draw. MyBody-X tests are screening tools, not medical diagnostics. Caveat: rare causes like pituitary disorders or adrenal crisis can be life-threatening – seek immediate care if you experience shock, vomiting, or confusion.