was ist cortisol — when to see a doctor?

Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, immune function, and the stress response. You should see a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms such as unexplained weight changes (especially central obesity with thin limbs), chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, mood swings, easy bruising, or menstrual irregularities in women. Sudden symptoms like severe back pain, confusion, or vomiting may indicate an adrenal crisis – seek immediate medical help. A single cortisol measurement from saliva or blood is often unreliable because cortisol follows a circadian rhythm (high in the morning, low at night) and is affected by stress, sleep deprivation, or medications. MyBody-X tests can measure cortisol as part of stress profiles, but they do not replace medical diagnosis. Suspected Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency requires confirmatory tests (e.g., dexamethasone suppression test, ACTH stimulation test).