Cortisol

Everyone’s talking about cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone.” Cortisol levels have a significant impact on our health. Are there treatments for high or low cortisol levels?

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced and released by our adrenal glands. Hormones are chemicals that carry messages through our blood to the organs, skin, muscles, and other tissues. Stress is one key reason cortisol is released, and it impacts our body in a number of ways:

• Cortisol helps to regulate our blood pressure. Elevated levels can lead to high blood pressure (and vice versa).

• Cortisol raises blood sugar. Chronically high levels of cortisol can lead to persistent high blood sugar, and ultimately, type 2 diabetes.

• Cortisol helps to control our sleep-wake cycle. We typically have lower cortisol levels in the evening when we go to sleep, and peak levels in the morning right before we awaken.

• In short spurts, cortisol helps to boost immunity by limiting inflammation. However, when levels in the blood are consistently high, the body can become accustomed to high levels, ultimately leading to inflammation and a weakened immune system.

• Consistently high cortisol levels can lead to weight gain, particularly in the face and abdomen. Low levels can lead to poor appetite and weight loss.

• Abnormal levels of cortisol can cause muscle weakness, excessive hair loss, and weak bones and fractures.

What are some causes of low cortisol levels? Primary adrenal insufficiency, most commonly caused by Addison’s disease, is an autoimmune reaction in which the immune system attacks healthy cells in the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands can also become damaged from an infection or blood loss to the adrenal gland tissue. Secondary adrenal insufficiency is usually caused by an underactive pituitary gland as a result of a tumor. Simple blood tests can identify issues with your adrenal or pituitary glands, and cortisol levels can be checked through blood tests, urine or saliva. Medication is available for those with low cortisol levels.

High cortisol levels can be caused by various tumors, corticosteroid medication (prednisone, prednisolone or dexamethasone), and Cushing’s syndrome. HOWEVER: If high cortisol levels are not caused by these conditions or medications, then the very best treatment is to address stress. Be aware of your heart rate, blood pressure, teeth grinding, and other signs of stress. Take action to reduce stressors and stressful thinking patterns, practice deep breathing, yoga, meditation, or massage. Work on resolving sleep issues, treat sleep apnea, and address sleep challenges caused by an irregular work or school schedule. Consistent exercise helps to both improve sleep quality and to reduce stress. As always, diet matters. Keep it balanced, and limit sugar and caffeine, which can increase cortisol levels. Engage in hobbies, maintain healthy relationships and develop community ties.

It is a very good idea to be on the lookout for symptoms of high or low cortisol levels, especially including weight gain or loss, and high or low blood pressure. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider with your questions or concerns.