Why do I need a cortisol test?You may need a cortisol test if you have symptoms of Cushing's syndrome or Addison disease.Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include:Obesity, especially in the torsoHigh blood pressureHigh blood sugarPurple streaks on the stomachSkin that bruises easilyMuscle weaknessWomen may have irregular menstrual periods and excess hair on the faceSymptoms of Addison disease include:Weight lossFatigueMuscle weaknessAbdominal painDark patches of skinLow blood pressureNausea and vomitingDiarrheaDecreased body hairYou may also need a cortisol test if you have symptoms of an adrenal crisis, a life-threatening condition that can happen when your cortisol levels are extremely low. Symptoms of an adrenal crisis include:Very low blood pressureSevere vomitingSevere diarrheaDehydrationSudden and severe pain in the abdomen, lower back, and legsConfusionLoss of consciousness
