This test measures the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the blood. ACTH is a hormone made by the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain. ACTH controls the production of another hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is made by the adrenal glands, two small glands located above the kidneys. Cortisol plays an important role in helping you to:
Respond to stress
Fight infection
Regulate blood sugar
Maintain blood pressure
Regulate metabolism, the process of how your body uses food and energy
Too much or too little cortisol can cause serious health problems.
Medical tests can help detect a condition, determine a diagnosis, plan treatment, check to see if treatment is working, or monitor the condition over time. A doctor may order these tests as part of a routine checkup, to check for certain diseases and disorders, or to monitor your health.
An x-ray examination uses an electrical device to emit (put out) x-rays and digital technology to create two-dimensional pictures of internal body structures.
This test is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions or diseases that affect the bones and chest.
A conventional x-ray examination is non-invasive, painless and does not require any recovery time.
The dose of radiation from an x-ray examination is considered safe ? roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.
An electrocardiogram records the electrical signals in the heart. It’s a common and painless test used to quickly detect heart problems and monitor the heart’s health.
An electrocardiogram ? also called ECG or EKG ? is often done in a health care provider’s office, a clinic or a hospital room. ECG machines are standard equipment in operating rooms and ambulances. Some personal devices, such as smartwatches, offer ECG monitoring. Ask your health care provider if this is an option for you.
