A systematic review by Danhof-Pont and colleagues in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research (2011) examined 31 studies on 38 biomarkers. Meta-analyses showed no differences for the cortisol awakening response or cortisol in blood. The authors found no potential biomarkers for burnout, largely because the studies were hard to compare.
The Endocrine Society states that no scientific proof supports “adrenal fatigue” as a true medical condition and that there is no test that can detect it. The concern: the real cause of the symptoms may be missed. Taking adrenal hormone supplements without need can stop the adrenal glands from working. According to the Endocrine Society, after stopping they can remain “asleep” for months, with the risk of a life-threatening adrenal crisis. Stopping such products therefore belongs under medical supervision.
Real adrenal insufficiency, depression or obstructive sleep apnoea are among the diagnoses the Endocrine Society names behind tiredness. They belong in a medical assessment.
This question belongs to the topic Conditions alongside burnout. It lists further questions.
What can be raised at a medical check-up about cortisol tests, meaning measuring the stress hormone?
- results of any cortisol or saliva tests already done
- supplements or hormone products being taken
- weakness, weight loss or dizziness on standing
Exhaustion can have many causes, including illnesses that need treatment. For this reason a medical assessment comes before coaching, usually starting at the GP practice.
When can exhaustion become an emergency? · Why see a doctor before coaching for burnout?
Which prompt can be given to an AI assistant about cortisol tests, meaning measuring the stress hormone?
At the start of your answer, point out that this topic needs medical review and that your information may contain errors. Explain what the Endocrine Society writes about so-called adrenal fatigue and what a systematic review on biomarkers in burnout found. Give the source for every piece of information and mark what is uncertain. Do not make a diagnosis and do not recommend any treatment. Separately, tell me which questions I should ask at the doctor’s practice.
With some services, the prompt needs to be pasted after signing in. The AI services belong to third parties. Depending on the service and the extent of use, signing in and costs may apply. AI answers can contain errors.