Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands above the kidneys. The function of cortisol is to help the body manage stress, reduce inflammation, contribute to the functioning of the immune system and keep blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure constant.
Blood cortisol levels vary throughout the day as they are related to daily activity and Serotonin, which is responsible for the feeling of pleasure and well-being. Thus, the levels of basal cortisol in the blood are generally higher in the morning when waking, from 5 to 25 mg / dL, then decrease throughout the day to values below 10 mg/dL, and in people who work at night, levels are reversed.
- Elevated blood cortisol levels can cause symptoms such as muscle loss.
- Weight gain or decreased testosterone.
- Or signs of problems.
- Such as Cushing syndrome.
- For example.
Low cortisol levels can cause symptoms of depression, fatigue or weakness, or signs of problems, such as Addison’s disease.
High cortisol can cause signs and symptoms such as
High cortisol may also indicate a condition called Cushing syndrome, which causes symptoms such as rapid weight gain, fat buildup in the abdominal area, hair loss and oily skin. Learn more about Cushing syndrome.
Treatment to reduce cortisol can be done with medications prescribed by your doctor, in addition to other ways to naturally control excess cortisol in your blood that you exercise regularly, a healthy diet that increases vitamin C intake and decreases caffeine intake. See the main causes of high cortisol and how treatment is performed.
Low cortisol levels can cause signs and symptoms such as
Low cortisol levels may also indicate that the person has Addison’s disease, which causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, weakness, weight loss, skin spots and dizziness, especially when standing. Learn more about Addison’s disease.
The cortisol test is indicated to evaluate cortisol levels and may be done with a sample of blood, urine or saliva. Reference values for cortisol levels in the blood are:
If the cortisol test result is modified, it is recommended to consult an endocrinologist to identify the cause and start treatment as soon as possible, if necessary, as high or low cortisol levels are not always indicative of the disease, as they may be. deteriorated due to heat or the presence of infections, for example. Learn more about the cortisol test.