If you’re experiencing stubborn belly fat, fatigue, anxiety, sleep problems, or symptoms that point toward hormone imbalance, you may be wondering:
“What doctor do I see for high cortisol?”
The truth is — the right doctor depends on your symptoms, your test results, and how long you’ve been dealing with them.
This guide breaks down exactly which doctor to see, when to see them, and what to expect during your visit.
Quick Answer: Start With Your Primary Care Doctor (PCP)
Your Primary Care Physician (PCP) is the first doctor you should see for high cortisol concerns.
Why PCP First?
- They can order the first-round cortisol tests
- They evaluate symptoms (stress, metabolism, weight, sleep)
- They rule out lifestyle or medication causes
- They provide referrals to specialists
- Covered by all US insurance plans
A PCP can order:
✔ Morning cortisol blood test
✔ 24-hour urine cortisol
✔ Late-night salivary cortisol
✔ ACTH hormone test
When You Need an Endocrinologist (Hormone Specialist)
An endocrinologist is the specialist for high cortisol, adrenal issues, Cushing’s, thyroid imbalance, insulin resistance, and hormone disorders.
See an endocrinologist if:
- Your at-home cortisol test looks high
- Your PCP finds abnormal cortisol levels
- You have rapid belly fat gain
- You have irregular periods
- You have severe fatigue or sleep problems
- You have high blood pressure + belly fat
- You suspect adrenal or pituitary problems
What they test:
- 24-hour urine cortisol
- Dexamethasone suppression test
- ACTH hormone levels
- Salivary cortisol (late-night)
- Thyroid, insulin, estrogen, progesterone
Do You Need a Gastroenterologist? (Only If Bloating Is Severe)
If your symptoms are more bloating, digestive pain, IBS, or gut issues, your cortisol might not be the core problem.
A GI doctor is helpful when you have:
- Persistent bloating
- Gut inflammation
- Food intolerances
- Severe post-meal swelling
But for most people with belly fat + stress symptoms → Endocrinologist is correct.
When to See a Mental Health Professional
Cortisol is your stress hormone — so if chronic anxiety or stress is a major trigger, a mental health professional may help lower cortisol faster.
Consider a therapist if you have:
- Chronic anxiety
- Burnout
- Emotional eating
- Sleep-related stress
Cortisol is deeply connected to emotional wellbeing, so mental health support can help more than people realize.
What to Tell Your Doctor (Speak Like a US Patient)
Bring up these key points:
- “I’m experiencing symptoms of high cortisol.”
- “My belly fat has increased even without overeating.”
- “My sleep and stress levels have worsened.”
- “I’d like to check my cortisol levels.”
- “Can I get a late-night salivary cortisol test?”
This tells your doctor you know exactly what you need.
What Tests You Can Request
Ask your PCP or endocrinologist for:
1. Morning Cortisol Blood Test
Basic screening test.
2. Late-Night Salivary Cortisol
Best for chronic stress patterns.
3. 24-Hour Urine Cortisol Test
Most accurate for diagnosing high cortisol.
4. Dexamethasone Suppression Test
Checks how your body regulates cortisol.
These tests together give the full picture.
Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore
See a doctor ASAP if you have:
- Rapid belly fat gain
- Purple stretch marks
- Heavy fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Irregular periods
- Sudden anxiety
- Unexplained high blood pressure
These may signal serious cortisol dysregulation.
Bonus Tip
If you suspect cortisol spikes at night, ask specifically for a late-night salivary cortisol test — the most accurate test for hidden stress patterns.
FAQs
1. What doctor checks cortisol levels?
Start with a PCP → then see an endocrinologist if levels are abnormal.
2. Can I go directly to an endocrinologist?
Yes, but some US insurance plans require a PCP referral.
3. Who diagnoses Cushing’s syndrome?
An endocrinologist.
4. Can a gynecologist test cortisol?
Some can, but most recommend seeing a PCP or endocrinologist.
📌 Related Posts You’ll Love:
- How to Get Tested for High Cortisol using: “cortisol testing guide”
- Signs of High Cortisol using: “common symptoms of high cortisol”
- Cortisol Belly Diet using: “foods that lower cortisol levels naturally”
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Always talk to your doctor, primary care physician, or a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, supplements, or hormone-related treatments. If you have severe or persistent symptoms, seek medical help immediately.