Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Adrenal Stress Index Test look for?
This test measures the body’s major stress hormones Cortisol and DHEA. These hormones are not constantly released throughout the day, but are secreted in a cycle called the ‘Circadian Rhythm’ with the highest values of Cortisol in the morning and the lowest at night.
Cortisol and DHEA assist the body in managing stress, influence metabolism and can have an affect on thyroid function. Therefore this test serves as a reliable marker of an individual’s stress response.
What symptoms would I be suffering with to consider this test ?
• PMS
• Cravings
• Weight gain/ weight loss, abdominal obesity
• Inexplicable hunger
• Increased number of minor infections and viruses e.g. thrush, cystitis, colds and flu
• Poor concentration and memory
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Low energy
• Insomnia
• Loss of libido
• Anxiety/depression
• Headaches
• Mood swings/irritability
• Panic attacks/nervousness
• Digestive disturbances e.g. diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, stomach aches and pains
• Increased sensitivities to food and alcohol
• Skin problems e.g. eczema and psoriasis
What do I do if I miss a sample?
All 4 saliva samples for the Adrenal Stress Index must be completed on the same day and at the stated times to make this test valid. If any samples are missed or taken incorrectly, the laboratory must be contacted to resend the kit. There is no charge for this.
I am a night worker; can I still do this test?
The only data and research available for stress hormones - cortisol and DHEA are for the times indicated in the kit instructions, i.e a normal working day of 9-5. However with consistent night work not in a shift pattern the body will adapt and develop a circadian rhythm similar to a 9-5 worker and therefore it can still prove a valuable test however if the shift pattern is continually changing it will be more difficult for the laboratory to interpret the results.
Can I do the test at the weekend?
Your circadian rhythm does not alter significantly over the weekend but there will be some variation. If your weekend is considerably different from during the working week and this is the time you feel stress may be affecting your health it is best to conduct the test then. If, however, weekends are the time you feel most stressed then you could carry out the test over the weekend.
How do I store the samples?
If possible store the samples in the freezer or a cold place during the day. Following the last sample please put all samples in the freezer over night and keep there until posting.
If I wake up in the middle of night should I take the first sample then?
If waking during the night is routine and you go back to sleep then you do not need to take a sample. Wait until the morning when you wake up for the day. If you wake up during night before carrying out the test and this is unusual it is best to select another day to begin collecting samples.
Have we not answered your question?
If we have not answered your question here then please email us at questions@gillianmckeithclinic.com and we will add it to our list.
What does the test report look like – Can I see a sample report?
To view a sample report please click here – please bare in mind that once you have purchased your test kit and received your results you will be able to gain access to the secure login area where your results will be stored. This is where you will also be able to find the solution to any infections for which the test shows positive for. (see attachment)
Be aware: when completing a Male or Female Hormone test you will NOT need to do a Stress test (Adrenal Stress Test). This is because this test is included within the Male and Female Hormone tests.
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