Understanding the Cortisol DHEA Ratio
Cortisol and DHEA move through the same stress response system. Cortisol helps mobilize glucose, maintain blood pressure, and support alertness. DHEA and DHEA-S are adrenal hormones linked with repair, resilience, and androgen balance. The ratio compares the relative strength of these signals, not a diagnosis.
Why the Ratio Matters
A single hormone value can be hard to read alone. Cortisol may look acceptable, while DHEA is low. The ratio can then appear high. This pattern may suggest a stronger catabolic signal. A low ratio may happen when cortisol is low compared with DHEA. Interpretation must match age, sex, sample type, medications, symptoms, and lab ranges.
Units and Sample Timing
Labs use different units. Serum cortisol may use micrograms per deciliter or nanomoles per liter. Salivary cortisol may use nanograms per milliliter. DHEA-S is often reported in micrograms per deciliter or micromoles per liter. This calculator converts selected units into nanomoles per liter before division. Timing is also important. Cortisol follows a daily rhythm. Morning values are usually higher than evening values. DHEA-S is more stable, but still needs context.
Using Results Carefully
The result section shows converted values, the ratio, an inverse ratio, and the position against your selected target band. The default band is only an educational placeholder. Your clinician or lab may use different limits. Always enter the range you were given when possible.
Practical Review Steps
Review the sample source first. Do not compare saliva, serum, and urine results as if they are identical. Next, confirm whether the second marker is DHEA or DHEA-S. Then check time, fasting state, supplement use, steroid medicines, and recent illness. Finally, compare current results with past results from the same lab. Trends are usually more useful than one isolated number.
Before changing supplements, repeat testing only as advised. Keep the collection method consistent. Record sleep, exercise, caffeine, stress, and diet around testing. These notes often explain changes better than the single number alone.
Health Note
This tool supports organization and discussion. It cannot diagnose adrenal fatigue, Cushing syndrome, Addison disease, hormone deficiency, or any medical condition. Seek qualified care for abnormal results, severe fatigue, weight changes, fainting, high blood pressure, pregnancy concerns, or steroid medication adjustments.