High Cortisol
Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands. Often referred to as the "stress hormone," it plays an important role in helping your body respond to stress. However, when cortisol levels remain high for extended periods, it can have serious effects on your health.
What Is High Cortisol?
High cortisol—also known as hypercortisolism—occurs when your body produces too much cortisol, either due to chronic stress, certain medical conditions (like Cushing’s syndrome), or imbalances in the adrenal or pituitary glands.
What Does High Cortisol Do to the Body?
When cortisol levels stay elevated, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms and health issues, including:
- Weight gain, especially around the abdomen and face
- Fatigue and poor sleep (even after a full night’s rest)
- Mood changes like anxiety, depression, or irritability
- Weakened immune function, leading to frequent illnesses
- High blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Brain fog, memory issues, and trouble concentrating
- Hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities
- Muscle weakness or bone loss over time
These effects often develop gradually and may be mistaken for normal aging or the result of a busy lifestyle.
Why Early Detection Matters
Many people live with high cortisol for years before it’s diagnosed. Early detection is key to preventing long-term damage to your cardiovascular, metabolic, and mental health. The sooner we identify elevated cortisol levels, the sooner we can investigate the underlying cause and begin appropriate treatment.
Why Treatment Is Important
Left untreated, chronic high cortisol can increase your risk for:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Depression and anxiety disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Compromised immunity
Treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause—whether that’s chronic stress, a hormone-secreting tumor, or another medical condition. With the right approach, cortisol levels can be brought back into balance, and many symptoms can be significantly improved—or even reversed.
If you're experiencing persistent stress, fatigue, unexplained weight gain, or any of the symptoms listed above, it may be time to look deeper. Early testing and evaluation can make all the difference.
