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Cortisol is the body’s stress hormone 

Cortisol is measured in cases of suspected cortisol deficiency or in hypercortisolism, which means the body produces too much cortisol.

Brief about cortisol

  • Cortisol is produced in the adrenal glands and has several important functions in the body.
  • Cortisol secretion increases significantly in response to sudden bodily stress, such as severe pain.
  • Cortisol levels are typically lowest at midnight and highest during the morning.

What is cortisol?

Cortisol is a stress hormone produced in the adrenal glands and has several important functions. It regulates blood flow, sleep, and metabolism, for example. During inflammation, physical stress, or fear, the amount of cortisol increases to protect the body and reduce the negative impact of stress. The purpose is to protect the individual, and when it functions properly, the person is focused and alert. If cortisol levels remain high for an extended period, it can lead to immune system problems.

What does a high value mean?

High cortisol levels can be observed in conditions such as stress, estrogen influence, treatment with corticosteroid medications, and Cushing’s syndrome.

Cushing’s syndrome

It is a rare condition where the adrenal cortex produces too much cortisol. Cushing’s syndrome is typically caused by a small tumor in the pituitary gland. The tumor produces too much ACTH hormone, which forces the adrenal cortex to produce more cortisol than needed. Symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome include weight gain, skin bruising, and mental health issues.

What does a low value mean?

Low cortisol levels can be observed in conditions such as Adrenogenital syndrome (where the adrenal cortex secretes too many androgens, or male hormones, into the bloodstream), untreated hypothyroidism, and Addison’s disease.

Addison’s disease

The adrenal cortex produces cortisol and aldosterone. In adrenal insufficiency, the production of these hormones decreases. Addison’s disease is caused by the body beginning to produce antibodies against the cells in the adrenal cortex. As a result, the cells that produce cortisol and aldosterone are destroyed. Symptoms of Addison’s disease include weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, and weight loss. The disease is treated with medication that replaces the missing hormone secretion, and the treatment is lifelong.

What are the reference values for P-Cortisol?

The cortisol concentration in the blood varies depending on the time of day. Cortisol levels are highest in the morning and lowest at midnight.

Morning sample: 145 – 620 nmol/L

Afternoon sample: 95 – 460 nmol/L

Reference values may vary depending on where the analysis is performed and which analysis method is used.

FAQ

Cortisol levels can be reduced by changing lifestyle habits, such as increasing relaxation exercises, getting enough sleep, and avoiding prolonged stress. It is advisable to include antioxidant-rich foods in your diet and avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and sugar.

The speed of effect of a cortisone tablet depends on several factors, such as the dosage of the medication and the individual characteristics of the patient. Generally, the effect of the cortisone tablet begins to be felt within a few hours of ingestion. Full effect is usually achieved within a few days. Cortisone is an effective medication that suppresses inflammation and the immune response, and is used to treat many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

Cortisone can raise blood sugar, and the extent of the effect depends on the dosage and individual factors. It is important for diabetics to closely monitor their blood sugar levels during cortisone treatment.

The body regulates cortisol levels in the blood using a negative feedback mechanism where the pituitary gland and adrenal glands communicate with each other. When cortisol levels are high, the pituitary gland reduces the production of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which lowers cortisol levels.

Cortisol affects many body functions, such as metabolism, the immune system, and blood pressure. High cortisol levels can lead to sleep difficulties, weight gain, and weakened immune system.

Cortisol is typically measured with a blood test taken at a laboratory. Vital offers the possibility to order a cortisol test, which can be performed without a doctor’s referral.

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Article updated:
23 October 2024

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