HeeeellllllllllP! cortisol question

[DLA]

I give up!  Been trying to find answer on internet but brain fog and exhaustion getting me nowhere.  So I turn to you wise people!  (I personally feel like the biggest ditz that ever lived right now.)

Endo called today in the middle of my PCP exam to tell me about my cortisol blood test yesterday.  Understood some of what she said, but not much-very heavy accent made worse by cell phone.  At 8:00 am yesterday when they drew my blood my cortisol level was 5 when low normal begins at 15.  She said she understood why I was so tired.  Ask me questions about why I had wanted adrenal tests, I explained that to her, she said some stuff I didn't understand, I tried to translate what she was talking about but still didn't make sense she would say "No, no."  Do know that I have to go back this week for a test lasting 1 hour, will have to take a prescription with me --I swear I thought she said it was PCP-- it's something like ACTH or ACHT, anyway given iv push and blood draws from butterfly.

Anyone who can help me understand this?  I would gladly kiss your feet right now if you could.  Am so tired has taken about 15 mins.  to type this post.

Thank you,
Dac

[Nyxie63]

They're probably going to do a ACTH stimulation test.  ACTH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimluates the production of cortisol.  They'll test your cortisol levels before, during and after the test.  By injecting you with a set dose of ACTH they can measure your cortisol production over time.  Ask your dr if you're supposed to fast before the test.  I think it's recommended, but not sure.  Hope this helps some. :)

Also, try here for more info.  It's fairly easy to read and not too long...
http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/acth/test.html