How does cortisol impact overall health and well-being?

Question

Hello doctor,

Lately, I have been feeling overwhelmed and read that cortisol, the stress hormone, might be affecting my health. How does psychological stress impact cortisol levels, and what can I do to manage this stress hormone? Are there specific tests to measure cortisol levels, and what treatments or lifestyle changes would you recommend to help reduce stress?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Thank you for taking help from a psychiatrist. Psychological stress has a significant impact on cortisol levels. Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is produced by the adrenal glands and plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress. When you experience stress, your hypothalamus signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol into the bloodstream. This hormone helps your body manage stress by increasing blood sugar, enhancing your brain's use of glucose, and increasing the availability of substances that repair tissues. However, chronic stress can lead to prolonged elevated cortisol levels, which may contribute to various health issues, including anxiety, depression, digestive problems, heart disease, sleep disturbances, and weight gain.

Measuring Cortisol Levels-

Cortisol levels can be measured through several types of tests:

Blood Test: Measures cortisol levels in your blood, typically taken in the morning when cortisol levels are highest.
Saliva Test: Measures cortisol at different times of the day to see how levels fluctuate.
Urine Test: Collects urine over 24 hours to measure cortisol output.
Dexamethasone Suppression Test: Involves taking a synthetic glucocorticoid and measuring how it affects cortisol levels.

You should try to follow the below guidelines to deal with your stress. It will help you.

You should do exercises daily for 30 to 45 minutes like at least going for a walk.
You should do meditation for 20 minutes daily, just sit in one place in a comfortable position, and try to concentrate on your normal breathing, do not stop or force yourself to stop your thoughts, just let it be.
You should eat healthy home-cooked foods, and avoid junk foods.
You must drink enough water.
You should spend quality time with friends and family daily or do video calls if you are living away from your family.
You should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills or language or musical instruments.
You should get enough seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
You must avoid tobacco alcohol or any substance abuse.
Live your life, do not just spend it. Be bold and confident.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Regards.

Thank you.