Cortisol is a hormone produced by glands in our bodies called the adrenal glands, which sit above the kidneys. It plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including regulating metabolism, reducing inflammation and helping the body respond to stress. While essential for our health, chronic elevation of cortisol levels can lead to several issues.
Elevated cortisol can occur for a number of reasons. One is a rare condition called Cushing’s syndrome, which affects people who have been taking steroid medicines that contain a synthetic version of cortisol for a long time. Even more rarely, it can be caused by the body producing too much cortisol due to a tumour in the brain or adrenal glands.
Several signs suggest significantly elevated cortisol levels:
Weight gain
One indicator of high cortisol is weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. Cortisol influences where fat is stored and higher levels can lead to more fat being deposited in that area. This is true for both women and men, although hormonal differences may influence the extent and distribution.
But while elevated cortisol does contribute to increased abdominal fat, it’s not the sole factor. Diet, lifestyle, genetics and other hormonal imbalances (such as insulin resistance) also play significant roles. A build-up of fat on the back of your neck and shoulders, often referred to as a ‘buffalo hump’, as well as a puffy, rounded face are also signs.
Fatigue and insomnia
Despite feeling tired, people with high cortisol levels often experience difficulty sleeping, which can lead to chronic fatigue. Cortisol follows a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the morning and gradually declining throughout the day. When this rhythm is disrupted, sleep patterns can suffer.
High blood pressure and sugar levels
Cortisol helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar. Elevated levels over time can cause these to rise, leading to the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes.
Mood changes
Cortisol is often referred to as the stress hormone. Anxiety, depression and irritability are common in people with high cortisol, as it can affect the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Bone weakness
Chronic high levels of cortisol can lead to muscle atrophy and reduce bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis – especially in postmenopausal women.
Other symptoms
Skin that bruises easily, large purple stretch marks, reduced sex drive and fertility problems.
This article is an answer to the question (asked by Stephen Donnelly, via email) 'How can I tell if I've got high cortisol levels?'
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