Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It plays a key role in protecting the body from stress, regulating blood pressure, and participating in protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Regulation of Cortisol Secretion

Cortisol secretion is controlled by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is produced by the pituitary gland—a small gland located at the base of the brain. Cortisol and ACTH levels are regulated through a negative feedback mechanism:

• When cortisol levels drop, the pituitary gland increases ACTH production, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol until normal levels are restored.
• When cortisol levels rise, ACTH production decreases, leading to lower cortisol synthesis.

Because of this feedback loop, any increase or decrease in cortisol levels is often linked to changes in both cortisol and ACTH secretion.

Symptoms of Cortisol Imbalance

• Low cortisol production may cause non-specific symptoms, such as weight loss, weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and abdominal pain.
• Severe cortisol deficiency combined with extreme stress can trigger an adrenal crisis (adrenal infarction), which is a medical emergency.
• Excess cortisol can lead to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, obesity, skin thinning, and purple stretch marks on the abdomen.