6 signs your cortisol levels may be too high, according to a top US doctor
While some amounts of cortisol are needed by the body, high cortisol, the stress hormone, for a long time may cause health issues. A US-based board-certified MD shared the top 6 signs connected to high cortisol that you should know
What is cortisol? Cortisol, the stress hormone, is naturally produced by the adrenal glands located above the kidneys. It plays several important roles, including regulating your metabolism, immunity, and the body’s response to stress. However, high levels of cortisol can cause several problems and lead to various health issues and inflammation. (Image: Canva)
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What causes high cortisol? Chronic stress, lifestyle factors, and certain medications. Dr Kunal Sood, a board-certified MD, in his post on Instagram, shared 6 signs that indicate your cortisol levels may have been too high for too long. (Image: Canva)
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Weight gain, especially on the abdomen People with high cortisol may have a slow metabolism. They end up gaining weight “especially around the abdomen, face, and neck” despite eating the same foods. According to Dr Sood, “This pattern is often linked to cortisol-related fat distribution.” (Image: Canva)
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Skin issues like acne, easy bruising High cortisol levels can affect your skin. “Thinning skin, acne, easy bruising, and purple or red stretch marks (striae), particularly on the abdomen or thighs,” Dr Sood shared, are some of the signs that act as indicators. (Image: Canva)
Digestive issues such as IBS and bloating According to Dr Sood, both “chronic stress and high cortisol can disrupt gut health, contributing to bloating, IBS, and irregular digestion.” If you face such issues often or if they overlap with other signs, it’s best to consult a doctor. (Image: Canva)
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Muscle and joint pain If you have high cortisol, you may end up feeling more fatigue and muscle weakness. “High cortisol breaks down muscle tissue and can affect bone density, leading to weakness and discomfort.” Many people may also experience mental fatigue with Cushing's syndrome. (Image: Canva)
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Frequent colds or infections While a certain amount of cortisol helps in regulating the immune system, high amounts suppress immunity and make you more susceptible to illness. (Image: Canva)
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Irregular periods High cortisol can affect hormones too. When cortisol is high for a long time, it can interrupt the signals from the brain to the ovaries, which may cause skipped or irregular cycles. This is because cortisol reduces the production of estrogen and other sex hormones, resulting in lower libido. (Image: Canva)
