💨 Abstract

Cortisol, the stress hormone, regulates metabolism, blood pressure, and immune response. It fluctuates daily and in response to various stressors, including physical activity. Testing cortisol levels can help diagnose conditions like Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease, but is not recommended for general stress level evaluation. Tests involve blood, saliva, or urine samples and wearable devices are emerging for real-time monitoring. Cortisol levels usually peak in the morning and decline at night.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff