Test ID: S-122
The LCMS-Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) Saliva Test is an advanced at-home adrenal function test designed to measure cortisol and DHEAS levels at multiple time points throughout the day. This comprehensive profile evaluates how your stress hormones rise after waking and decline across the day — providing deep insight into HPA axis function, adrenal balance, energy regulation, and stress resilience.
Using non-invasive saliva sampling, this test allows accurate hormone assessment without clinic visits or blood draws. Ideal for men and women experiencing chronic stress, fatigue, sleep disturbance, burnout, or mood changes.
What Is the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR)?
The Cortisol Awakening Response refers to the natural increase in cortisol that occurs within the first 30–60 minutes after waking. A healthy response typically involves a 50% rise in cortisol within 30 minutes, a gradual decline throughout the afternoon, and low levels at night to support sleep. Disruption of this rhythm may reflect stress overload or altered adrenal regulation.
What This CAR Test Measures
Adrenal & Stress Hormones
- Cortisol – Upon Waking
- Cortisol – 30 Minutes After Waking
- Cortisol – 60 Minutes After Waking
- Midday Cortisol
- Evening Cortisol
- Night Cortisol
- DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)
This multi-point collection provides a full daily cortisol curve, allowing assessment of diurnal rhythm and adrenal output.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This test may be suitable for individuals experiencing chronic stress or burnout, persistent fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood swings or anxiety, difficulty waking in the morning, brain fog or poor concentration, low motivation or reduced performance, weight changes linked to stress, or suspected adrenal imbalance. Appropriate for both adults and children.
Symptoms Associated With Cortisol Imbalance
Possible Low Cortisol Patterns
- Ongoing fatigue
- Dizziness or low blood pressure
- Sugar or salt cravings
- Reduced stress tolerance
- Poor recovery
- Decreased libido
- Brain fog
Possible Elevated Cortisol Patterns
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Sleep disruption
- Central weight gain
- Irritability
- High blood sugar patterns
- Persistent stress feeling
- Thinning skin
Testing provides insight but does not diagnose disease. Results should be discussed with a healthcare professional if needed.
Why Choose Saliva Testing for Cortisol?
- Measures bioavailable (active) cortisol
- Avoids stress-induced spikes seen in blood testing
- Ideal for capturing awakening response
- Convenient at-home collection
- Accurate for monitoring stress-related hormone patterns
6-Tube vs 4-Tube Collection Options
6-Point Collection (Recommended for Full CAR)
- Wake (within 5 minutes)
- +30 minutes
- +60 minutes
- Noon
- Evening
- Night
Provides the most detailed cortisol awakening curve.
Key Features
- Collect samples from the comfort of your home — no clinic visit or invasive procedures required.
- Receive your test results within 3–5 working days after the laboratory receives your sample.
- Results include hormone levels in graphics and numbers, with expert commentary from a Hormone Specialist PhD.
- Suitable for both adults and children.
- Test kit valid for up to 12 months after the purchase date.
- Laboratory fee included — no additional costs or taxes.
- Customers are responsible for shipping their samples to the laboratory.
- How and When to Collect your saliva samples: Saliva Testing Instructions
- Click to see >> Sample Saliva Test Result Report
How It Works
- Order your CAR saliva test kit online.
- Collect saliva samples at specified times.
- Send samples to our accredited UK laboratory.
- Receive your detailed hormone report within 3–5 working days.
- Review graphical cortisol curve and specialist interpretation.
What Your Report Includes
- Individual cortisol values
- DHEAS measurement
- Diurnal rhythm graph
- Reference ranges
- Specialist commentary
- Practical next-step guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
What hormones are included?
Cortisol (multiple time points) and DHEAS.
Why is the awakening response important?
It reflects how effectively your adrenal system activates at the start of the day.
Do I need to fast?
No fasting required. Follow timing instructions carefully.
How long until I receive results?
3–5 working days after lab receipt.
Is this suitable during hormone therapy?
Yes, though testing timing should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Are there hidden costs?
No. Lab analysis and specialist review are included.
Take Control of Your Stress & Adrenal Health
Your cortisol rhythm influences energy, mood, sleep, metabolism, and resilience. The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) Saliva Test provides detailed insight into your daily stress hormone pattern — helping you better understand your adrenal function and overall wellbeing.
Order today for fast, accurate UK laboratory results from the comfort of your home.
