Testing

[notashrimpwimp]

 

So, my overall IgE went up, and there was a confirmation of papaya allergy. She is concerned about my cortisol.

[CMdeux]

Sorry about the papaya.

Did the doc indicate why s/he was concerned about cortisol?

[nameless]

same question here, plus, did your doctor refer you to an endocrinologist or a specialist?

Adrienne

[maeve]

Perhaps the doctor is worried about stress?  DD and I were tested for our cortisol levels as part of a study Hopkins is doing related to food challenges and stress.  A sample (saliva) was taken the morning of DD's challenge and then we provided a sample 2 weeks later (we were sent home with a kit and mailer). 

[notashrimpwimp]

My level was below 1.4 when it should be between 6-25.

She plans to have me retest in November plus never take steroids or aspirin again.

[rebekahc]

How were your sodium and potassium levels? 

That's interesting that you would be advised to not take steroids if your cortisol is low.  We have been instructed to give prednisone during times of illness or stress to boost cortisol levels in our dog with Addison's Disease.

Treatment

    Blood tests must be performed to verify levels of cortisol and other hormones that stimulate the release of cortisol. Treatment consists of medication to replace the cortisol (hydrocortisone or prednisone) and to correct imbalances of other elements such as sodium and potassium, which are influenced by the level of cortisol in the blood. Additionally, the physician will screen for any other conditions or diseases that may impact cortisol production. If found, these would have to be treated.


Read more: What are the Effects of Low Cortisol Levels? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_5184651_effects-low-cortisol-levels_.html#ixzz1amW5frah

[notashrimpwimp]

Those were normal she said. Last time my cortisol was done it was 36. I have a family history if depleted adrenal glands. I am thinking of asking my primary care physician.

I had been on prednisone and solumedrol the week before the test I think.

[CMdeux]

Sounds like it might be a good idea to pull an endocrinologist into the loop.  If your levels fluctuate that much, there's probably a reason.