Weight gain, anxiety and high blood pressure are the signs that will show your cortisol levels are too high

High cortisol levels can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea. (Image: Canva)

Cortisol plays a pivotal role in the body's response to stress, helping to mobilise energy reserves and prepare the body for action. It achieves this by increasing blood sugar levels, enhancing the breakdown of fats and proteins for energy, and sharpening mental alertness.

It’s a multifunctional hormone that influences a wide range of physiological processes, including stress response, metabolism, immune function, and blood pressure regulation. Its proper regulation is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being.

However, there are signs that will show that your cortisol levels are too high so look for them and address immediately.

Difficulty sleeping: Cortisol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the morning to help wake you up and declining in the evening to facilitate sleep, says Delhi-based endocrinologist Rahul Makkar, currently practising in South ex. However, chronic stress or elevated cortisol levels can disrupt this pattern, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, he says. This can lead to insomnia or fragmented sleep, where you wake up frequently during the night, feeling unrested in the morning.

Weight gain: Cortisol influences metabolism and the way your body stores fat, particularly around the abdomen. When cortisol levels remain consistently high due to chronic stress or other factors, it can lead to increased fat storage, especially visceral fat, which is associated with various health risks including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, says Makkar.

Anxiety and irritability: Cortisol is closely linked with the body's stress response, and prolonged elevation of cortisol levels can contribute to feelings of anxiety, nervousness, or irritability. High cortisol levels can amplify the body's response to stressors, leading to a heightened sense of tension or overwhelm, and in some cases, panic attacks.

Fatigue: While cortisol is known as the stress hormone and is crucial for energy regulation, persistently high levels can lead to fatigue and feelings of exhaustion. Chronic stress can overtax the adrenal glands, which produce cortisol, eventually leading to adrenal fatigue or burnout. This can result in a constant feeling of being drained, even after adequate rest.

Digestive issues: Cortisol affects digestion by altering the way the body processes food and nutrients. High cortisol levels can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea. It can also impair the function of the gastrointestinal tract and increase the risk of developing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

High blood pressure: Cortisol is involved in regulating blood pressure, and prolonged elevation of cortisol levels can contribute to hypertension or high blood pressure. Cortisol increases the constriction of blood vessels and promotes the retention of sodium, both of which can raise blood pressure levels over time.

Impaired immune function: While cortisol helps regulate the immune system's response to stress in the short term, chronically high levels can suppress immune function. This can weaken the body's ability to fight off infections, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses such as colds, flu, or other infections. Moreover, chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels have been linked to inflammatory conditions and autoimmune disorders.

If you're experiencing several of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management, says Makkar.