Functions of cortisol hormone and its role in our body

What is cortisol hormone

Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is produced by the gland present on the top of our kidneys known as adrenal cortex. Cortisol hormone is also known as stress hormone

Role of cortisol in our body

● Manages how our body uses carbohydrates, fats and proteins

● Keeps inflammation down

● Regulates your blood pressure

● Increases your blood glucose

● Controls your sleep wake cycle

● Boosts energy so you can handle stress and restores balance afterwards

How does it work ?

Your hypothalamus and pituitary gland both located in your brain can sense, if your blood contains right level of cortisol

If the level is too low , your brain adjusts the amount of hormones it makes. Your adrenal gland will pick up on these signals. Then fine -tune the amount of cortisol they release

What causes high levels of cortisol ?

High level of cortisol for extended period of time is usually considered as CUSHINGS SYNDROME

Causes of higher than normal level of cortisol

1. Taking large amount of corticosteroid medications, such as prednisolone or dexamethasone

2. Tumors that produce more cortisol hormones

3. Excessive growth of adrenal tissues

Symptoms of high cortisol levels

● Weight gain especially on your face and abdomen

● Fatty deposits between your shoulder blades

● Wide purple stretch marks on your abdomen

● Muscle weakness in your upper arms and thighs

● High blood sugar which often turns into type 2 diabetes

● Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)

● Weak bones(osteoporosis) and fractures

What causes low levels of cortisol ?

Having lower than normal cortisol level is considered adrenal insufficiency.

There are 2 types of adrenal insufficiency , primary and secondary.

Primary adrenal insufficiency : is most common cause by autoimmune reaction , in which your immune system attacks healthy cells in your adrenal gland for no reason, this is called Addison's disease

Secondary adrenal insufficiency : if you have underactive pituitary gland or a pituitary tumor, it can limit the cortisol production.

● Symptoms of low cortisol level

● Fatigue

● Unintentional weight loss

● Poor appetite

● Low blood pressure

HOW CAN I REDUCE MY CORTISOL LEVEL ?

If you have cushings syndrome, you will need medical treatment to lower your cortisol level .Treatment usually involves medication or surgery , you will also need medical treatment ,if you have lower than normal cortisol level .

In general though , there are several everyday things you can do to try to lower your cortisol levels and keep them at optimal ranges

● Get quality sleep : chronic sleep issues such as obstructive sleep apnea , insomnia or working at night shift are associated with high cortisol levels

● Exercise regularly : several studies have shown that regular exercise helps to improve sleep quality and reduce stress which can lower cortisol level over time

● Learn to limit stress and stressful thinking patterns

● Practice deep breathing exercises : controlled breathing helps to stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system

● Enjoy yourself and laugh : laughing promotes the release of endorphins and suppresses and cortisol , participating in hobbies and fun activities can also promote feeling of well being , which may lower your cortisol level

● Maintain healthy relationships : relationships are a significant aspect of our life ,having tense and unhealthy relationships with loved ones or co workers can cause stress and raise your cortisol level