Author : Dr. PD GUPTA
Former Director Grade Scientist, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, India
www.daylifenews.in
Cortisol is body’s main stress hormone which works as nature’s built-in alarm system. It works with certain parts of the brain to control mood, motivation, and fear.
It is produced by the adrenal glands — triangle-shaped organs at the top of the kidneys .
Cortisol plays an important role in a number of things in the body. For example, it:
Manages how the body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins
Keeps inflammation down
Regulates blood pressure
Increases blood sugar (glucose)
Controls sleep/wake cycle
Boosts energy so one can handle stress and restores balance afterward
How Does It Work?
This hormone levels in the blood is sensed by hypothalamus and pituitary gland — both located in the brain –. If the level is too low, the brain adjusts the amount of hormones it makes.The adrenal glands pick up on these signals. Then, they fine-tune the amount of cortisol they release.
The need of the hormone will differ from day to day. For instance, when the body is on high alert, cortisol can alter or shut down functions that get in the way. These might include the digestive or reproductive systems, immune system, and even the growth processes.
Sometimes, the cortisol levels can get out of whack.
Too Much Stress
After the pressure or danger has passed, your cortisol level should calm down. the heart, blood pressure, and other body systems will get back to normal.
But what if you’re under constant stress and the alarm button stays on?
It can derail your body’s most important functions. It can also lead to a number of health problems, including:
· Anxiety and depression
· Headaches
· Heart disease
· Memory and concentration problems
Problems with digestion
Trouble sleeping
Weight gain
Too Much Cortisol
The adrenal gland tumor in the brain’s pituitary gland can trigger the body to make too much cortisol. This can cause a condition called Cushing syndrome. It can lead to rapid weight gain, skin that bruises easily, muscle weakness, diabetes, and many other health problems.
Too Little Cortisol
If the body doesn’t make enough of this hormone, one can suffer with Addison’s disease. Usually, the symptoms appear over time. They include:
Changes in the skin, like darkening on scars and in skin folds
Being tired all the time
· Muscle weakness that grows worse
· Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
· Loss of appetite and weight
· Low blood pressure
If the body isn’t making enough cortisol, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, or prednisone tablets can help to produce this hormone more in the body.