Cortisol is termed as the stress hormone because it is produced at higher levels during the body's fight or flight response to stress. Cortisol is also involved in other bodily functions, such as regulation of blood pressure, inflammatory response, and proper glucose metabolism. Abnormal levels of Cortisol in the body are associated with some negative effects, including suppressed thyroid function, decreased bone density and muscle tissue, increased abdominal fat, impaired cognitive functions and higher blood pressure. <br><br><b>Diurnal Cortisol FAQ's:<br><br>What are some symptoms of high cortisol levels?</b><br>Some symptoms of high cortisol may include fatigue, acne, insomnia, high blood pressure or blood sugar, decreased concentration and weakness of the arms and legs.<br> <b>What are some symptoms of low cortisol levels?</b><br> Some symptoms of low cortisol may include extreme craving for salty foods, heart palpitations, headaches, irregular or non-existent menses and emotional hypersensitivity. <br> <b>Why is it better to test cortisol levels 4 times instead of just the morning?</b><br> Your morning cortisol levels may be perfectly normal in the morning and then rise or drop throughout the day so testing four times in one day gives a better overall reading of your cortisol production. <br> <b>Who should test their cortisol levels?</b><br>Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of high or low cortisol and those with chronic stress caused by situations like high stress jobs or family lives should test their cortisol levels. In addition, those with health concerns such as diabetes, depression, anxiety disorders, alcoholism & chronic pain would also benefit from testing their cortisol levels. <br><b>I suffer from dry mouth, do you have any tips to increase saliva flow?</b><br>If you have dry mouth you can try things like pressing the tip of your tongue against your teeth, smelling strong smelling foods such as lemons or yawning.