03/28/2025
Are you feeling fatigued, anxious, or have poor sleep quality? Perhaps you should evaluate your cortisol awakening response.
The Clinical Relevance of the Cortisol Awakening Response Profile (CAR)
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is a key biomarker for assessing hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function and stress resilience. By measuring the rise in cortisol levels upon waking, 30 minutes post-waking, and 60 minutes post-waking, the CAR provides insight into adrenal function, anticipatory stress, and metabolic adaptation, providing information beyond the diurnal cortisol four-point profile.
Because the act of waking is a predictable daily stressor, the CAR reflects physiologic potential to respond to daily challenges. A healthy response is characterized by a sharp increase in cortisol levels around 30 minutes after waking, followed by a gradual decline throughout the day. Deviations from this pattern can indicate underlying dysfunction.
Give us a call if you'd like to have your CAR evaluated.
214-377-4833
Call 214.377.4833 to schedule your appointment today!
