[fergusmccallister]

This might be completed unrelated to bipolar but I curious to know if there is a relation. I was tested for cortisol as part of my workup before being diagnosed and my morning and afternoon cortisol levels came back flat which can be indicative of chronic fatigue. Since it's a brain harmone is there a connection?

Thanks

[ilazria]

I'm not sure if cortisol was one of the things they tested on my last set of blood work. My psych read it all off for me, but my memory sux so much lately that I can forget things, especially small details, almost as soon as I hear them.

I've frequently wondered about some of the more obscure blood levels that could be tested in regards to how they effect my moods. I've read lots of different stories about things like vitamin deficiencies, hormone levels, artifical chemical intolerances, brain damage cause by chemical exposure during fetal development and childhood.... it's overwhelming and frightening. It's also not on the mainstream, more into the realm of homeopathic/naturopathic medicine. I haven't been able to work up the courage to flat out ask for these kinds of tests from my psych, and can't afford to see a true naturopath, since it's not covered by insurance.

[BNLsMOM]

Cortisol is a stress hormone, isn't it? I am not sure how it works in the body in relation to chronic fatigue and moods, but if you find out more info, would you share it?

[sunnyshine]

I was diagnosed with Manic Depressive, Depressive some 23 years ago. At that time they took a dexamethazone suppression test and my cortisol level was 22. I have now decided to look into some thyroid problems, namely a low TSH, and mentioned to one doctor about the coritsol taken previously. He took a blood cortisol test and the level came back at 27. I have never known anyone who has had their cortsiol levels checked after being diagnosed, but I think there is some connection. At this point in time I do not know what they are going to do about the cortisol.