Adrenal Stress Panel
Diurnal cortisol rhythm and DHEA-S to characterize stress response and adrenal output.
Blood draw
48 hrs
Physician-reviewed
What this panel measures
- Cortisol AM and PM — your diurnal stress-hormone rhythm
- DHEA-S — the upstream adrenal hormone your body converts to sex hormones
Why providers order it
- Chronic fatigue, burnout, or unrefreshing sleep
- Morning exhaustion paired with evening alertness (a reversed rhythm)
- Evaluating stress response and adrenal output
- Monitoring cortisol-affecting medications or recovery from prolonged stress
The panel relies on timed draws — cortisol is compared between a morning and an afternoon or evening collection. Avoid strenuous exercise before each draw, and follow your provider's medication instructions.
Adrenal Stress Panel: frequently asked questions
Why measure cortisol twice in one day?
Cortisol should peak shortly after you wake and fall steadily through the day. A single reading shows a number; two readings show the rhythm — which is what actually flags burnout, poor sleep, and adrenal dysfunction.
What is DHEA-S?
It is the most abundant adrenal hormone and a precursor your body converts into testosterone and estrogens. Low DHEA-S alongside low cortisol can indicate long-term stress load.
How long do adrenal panel results take?
Results are typically reported within 48 hours and physician-reviewed before release.
Often ordered together
This page is educational and does not replace medical advice. Testing decisions should be reviewed with a licensed provider.