Optimistic October 2025 W.I.S.H. Thread

[Oneanne]

TOPIC TUESDAY


Currently trending... Cortisol

In my FB and IG feeds I keep seeing posts about cortisol, it seems to be the health-thing-de-jour. Have you ever looked into your cortisol levels? Have you ever done any self-management for cortisol levels?


Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress.

Factors Affecting Cortisol Levels:

• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can temporarily increase cortisol levels.
  
• • Sleep: Lack of sleep can lead to elevated cortisol levels.
    
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase cortisol production.
    
  • Medical Conditions: Conditions like adrenal insufficiency or Cushing's syndrome can affect cortisol levels.
    

High Cortisol Levels (Hypercortisolism):

High cortisol levels can cause symptoms such as:

Weight gain, Thinning skin, Acne, High blood pressure, Diabetes, and Osteoporosis.
Low Cortisol Levels (Hypocortisolism):

Low cortisol levels can cause symptoms such as: Fatigue, Weakness, Low blood pressure, Salt cravings, and Nausea.

Testing Cortisol Levels:

Cortisol levels can be measured through a blood test or a saliva test. Your doctor may order these tests if you have symptoms of high or low cortisol levels.

Treatment:

Treatment for abnormal cortisol levels depends on the underlying cause. For example, if high cortisol levels are caused by stress, managing stress through techniques like exercise or meditation can help. If there is an underlying medical condition, it may require medication or surgery.

 

[PollyannaMom]

I've never had mine tested, but I suspect that if I did, it would be artificially high because doctor's appointments stress me out.

 

[piglet1979]

I have never had mine checked that I can remember. When I worked at the daycare we did have a little boy that did not make cortisol. We had to give him medication for this right at specific times which was super hard to do at a daycare.

 

[Oneanne]

I've never had mine checked either, but have started to pay attention to things you can do (other than buy a pill)... it all seems to be pretty standard stress management stuff.