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Having elevated cortisol levels takes a toll on the human body. It's important to recognize the warning signs when they appear.

Elevated Cortisol Levels

Cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," regulates the human body's stress response and has many vital functions, including inflammation suppression, blood sugar regulation and metabolism control. Released by the adrenal glands, cortisol impacts nearly every organ and tissue in the body. Stressors like acute, chronic, or traumatic stress can elevate cortisol levels, leading to symptoms like weight gain, fatigue and high blood pressure. 

Effects

When there are elevated cortisol levels, it impacts the body negatively. Some of the effects of elevated cortisol levels are listed below.

Weight Gain

Elevated cortisol levels can lead to weight gain, particularly around specific areas like the midsection, face and upper back. This occurs due to cortisol's role in metabolism regulation and its influence on fat storage, especially visceral fat. Increased cortisol levels may also stimulate appetite, leading to overeating and subsequent weight gain in these areas.

Skin and Hair Changes

Thin, fragile skin prone to bruising is common due to cortisol's impact on collagen production. Additionally, increased cortisol levels may lead to excessive hair growth in unwanted areas, such as the face (hirsutism), while simultaneously causing hair thinning or balding on the scalp.

Mental Health Changes

High cortisol levels can significantly affect mental well-being, contributing to anxiety, depression and mood swings. Cortisol's role in the stress response can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety and agitation, while prolonged exposure to stress hormones can disrupt neurotransmitter levels, impacting mood regulation and leading to depressive symptoms.

Fatigue and Weakness

Cortisol's catabolic effects on muscle tissue can lead to muscle weakness and loss over time, making daily activities more challenging. Moreover, persistent fatigue is common due to disrupted sleep patterns and the constant strain on the body's energy resources.

Reproductive Effects

In both men and women, high cortisol levels may disrupt hormone balance, leading to irregular periods, decreased fertility and sexual dysfunction. During pregnancy, excess cortisol can increase the risk of complications like miscarriage, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

Chronic Health Conditions

Prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels can contribute to the development of various chronic health conditions. Osteoporosis may result from cortisol's negative impact on bone density, while hypertension is common due to cortisol's influence on blood pressure regulation. Additionally, cortisol-induced insulin resistance can lead to diabetes, further exacerbating metabolic dysfunction and cardiovascular risk.

Warning Signs to Watch Out For

Signs of high cortisol levels include weight gain in the face and abdomen, fatty deposits between shoulder blades, purple stretch marks on the belly, muscle weakness, high blood sugar, hypertension, excessive hair growth and weak bones. 

Monitoring energy levels throughout the day can provide clues, especially if energy peaks at night. Consulting a practitioner who offers salivary cortisol testing is recommended for accurate diagnosis and management.