There are three stages of adrenal fatigue, each with a specific hormonal profile:

Stage 1 – Wired and Tired
Stage 2 – Stressed and Tired
Stage 3 – Full Burnout

In determining adrenal fatigue, it is customary to use tests such as the Adrenal Stress Index, or the Adrenocortex Stress Profile test. In these tests, the cortisol rhythm and DHEA are measured on the basis of saliva samples.

These pricey laboratory tests are not an option for everyone. Fortunately, there are also two free home tests that can provide insight.

The pupil contraction test

Normally, the pupils in your eyes maintain a constant degree of contraction after exposure to light. Pupils become smaller and remain small during exposure. With a deviating adrenal function, this contraction is not retained. The pupils sometimes do not react at all, or contract and then quickly dilate again, or dilation takes place in a delayed manner.

To perform the test, you need a flashlight. Stand in front of a mirror in a dark room. Shine with the light from the flashlight in one eye (not directly) and see what happens to the pupil.

The blood pressure test

Your blood pressure will normally rise when you stand up from a sitting or lying position. With an abnormal adrenal function, the opposite happens: blood pressure drops (orthostatic hypotension).

To perform the test you need a digital blood pressure monitor. Apply the blood pressure, then lie down in a comfortable position. Relax for at least 5 minutes, then measure your blood pressure.

After the first measurement, stand up and measure your blood pressure again in standing position. Look especially at a decrease of about 10mmHG or more in the diastolic measurement, the lower number.

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