High cortisol levels over a prolonged period can lead to a condition called Cushing syndrome. This occurs when the body produces too much cortisol for an extended time.
Symptoms of high cortisol levels include:
- Weight gain: Notably around the midsection and upper back, often accompanied by slender arms and legs.
- Rounding of the face: This is due to fat deposition in the facial area.
- Fatty deposits between the shoulder blades: This creates a characteristic "buffalo hump".
- Purple or pink stretch marks on the skin.
- Acne.
- Thinning skin.
- High blood pressure.
- Bone loss.
- Type 2 diabetes.
Causes of high cortisol levels:
- Tumors: These can be located in the pituitary gland, which controls cortisol production, or in the adrenal glands, which produce cortisol.
- Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can cause high cortisol levels.
- Overproduction by the body: This can occur due to unknown causes or certain medical conditions.
Treatment for high cortisol levels:
- Surgery: To remove tumors that are causing the overproduction of cortisol.
- Medications: To block the production of cortisol or to suppress the pituitary gland's production of ACTH, the hormone that stimulates cortisol production.
- Radiation therapy: To shrink tumors that are causing the overproduction of cortisol.
Note: High cortisol levels can have serious health consequences, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms.
