High Cortisol Levels in the Body

Cortisol is the primary stress hormone in the body, working with certain parts of the brain to control the body's response to threats of harm or danger. But is High cortisol in the body a normal occurrence? Continue reading to find out.

Is High Cortisol in the Body Normal?

Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands and plays a significant role in regulating blood pressure, blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation, metabolism, boosting energy to cope with stress, aiding recovery afterward, and managing the sleep-wake cycle.

The body's natural cortisol levels fluctuate throughout the day, and it is normal for anyone to experience High cortisol levels from time to time. This is a natural part of the body's response to threats, injury, or danger.

However, if the body continues to produce excessive cortisol, it often indicates an underlying health issue, such as Cushing's syndrome or hypercortisolism. 

What is the Normal Cortisol Level in the Body?

Cortisol levels in the blood and urine peak in the early morning and gradually decline throughout the day, reaching their lowest around midnight. This pattern may vary in individuals who work night shifts and sleep during the day. 

Generally, the normal ranges for cortisol levels in the blood are:

• 6 - 8 a.m.: 10 - 20 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL).
• 4 p.m.: 3 - 10 mcg/dL.

As for the normal range of cortisol in urine, it ranges from 10 - 55 micrograms per day for adults. In saliva, normal levels for adults are:

• Morning: 10.2 - 27.3 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
• Evening: 2.2 - 4.1 ng/mL.

It is important to note that normal ranges can vary from one lab to another, depending on time and individual differences.

What Are the Symptoms of High Cortisol?

High cortisol can cause various symptoms throughout the body, and these symptoms may vary depending on cortisol levels. Generally, symptoms of elevated cortisol in the body include:

• Weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back.
• A round face.
• Acne.
• Thinning skin.
• Easy bruising.
• Flushed face.
• Weak muscles and bones.
• Extreme fatigue and irritability.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Headache.
• High blood pressure.
• High blood sugar levels.
• Anxiety and depression.
• Slow wound healing.
• Irregular menstrual periods in women. 

What Causes High Cortisol?

The hypothalamus in the brain usually interacts with various glands in the body to regulate hormone levels. It works with the adrenal and pituitary glands to control cortisol levels. When cortisol levels are low, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to trigger cortisol release from the adrenal glands. 

Several factors can trigger the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol, including:

• Medications: High doses of Corticosteroid for long periods, used to treat conditions like asthma, arthritis, or other diseases (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisone), can raise cortisol levels. Some studies also suggest that oral contraceptives may increase cortisol levels.
• Stress: Stress, exposure to danger, or threats can trigger a combination of signals within the body that prompts the adrenal glands to release cortisol and adrenaline, preparing the body to handle such situations. Once the threat is gone, hormone levels return to normal. However, if stress or pressure persists, this response does not cease, keeping cortisol levels elevated, which may negatively affect all bodily functions.
• Adrenal Gland Tumors: Adrenal gland tumors can be benign or malignant and vary in size. Regardless of their type, these tumors can cause excessive cortisol secretion.
• Pituitary Gland Issues: Pituitary gland problems can lead to an increase or decrease in hormone production, including ACTH, which stimulates cortisol production. Pituitary issues that may cause elevated cortisol levels include hyperpituitarism and benign or malignant pituitary tumors.

Should You See a Doctor?

Yes, it is advisable to see a doctor if the aforementioned symptoms are present, as elevated cortisol levels are linked to several complications, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, insulin resistance, and psychological disorders.

Because symptoms of elevated cortisol resemble those of many other health conditions, a doctor may request specific tests to determine the cause, including:

• Measuring cortisol levels in blood, urine, or saliva.
• Imaging tests of the adrenal or pituitary glands to check for tumors or abnormalities. 

Blazma offers Cortisol testing in the morning (AM) and evening (PM), requiring fasting and avoiding drinking or brushing teeth before the test.