Welcome to EmpowHer! And thank you so much for your question.
For you and for those others reading this, here's an explanation of cortisol from our EmpowHer encyclopedia:
"Cortisol is manufactured from cholesterol by the adrenal glands. Its secretion is controlled by hormones released from the pituitary gland and hypothalamus . Cortisol levels vary according to a daily (circadian) rhythm , but peak at times of stress. It stimulates the central nervous system , increases water retention and blood sugar levels (available energy), stimulates the metabolism of proteins (to repair injuries), and regulates blood pressure. Cortisol is also an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic agent, and reduces the actions of the immune system . Molecules from the same family, such as cortisone, are used as medications to control inflammation, allergy (asthma), and graft rejection."
Can you tell us what tests you have had done?
Did your doctor test your thyroid levels? How about your adrenal levels?
Did he mention possible adrenal exhaustion?
Is your blood pressure normal?
May I ask how old you are, and whether you are in perimenopause or menopause?
Please let us know some more information so we can research this for you, and perhaps ask a doctor on our board of medical experts. In the meantime, here's an article with links you might be interested in:
Comment Reply
Hi, Anon,
Welcome to EmpowHer! And thank you so much for your question.
For you and for those others reading this, here's an explanation of cortisol from our EmpowHer encyclopedia:
"Cortisol is manufactured from cholesterol by the adrenal glands. Its secretion is controlled by hormones released from the pituitary gland and hypothalamus . Cortisol levels vary according to a daily (circadian) rhythm , but peak at times of stress. It stimulates the central nervous system , increases water retention and blood sugar levels (available energy), stimulates the metabolism of proteins (to repair injuries), and regulates blood pressure. Cortisol is also an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic agent, and reduces the actions of the immune system . Molecules from the same family, such as cortisone, are used as medications to control inflammation, allergy (asthma), and graft rejection."
Can you tell us what tests you have had done?
Did your doctor test your thyroid levels? How about your adrenal levels?
Did he mention possible adrenal exhaustion?
Is your blood pressure normal?
May I ask how old you are, and whether you are in perimenopause or menopause?
Please let us know some more information so we can research this for you, and perhaps ask a doctor on our board of medical experts. In the meantime, here's an article with links you might be interested in:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/24059-effects-low-cortisol-levels/
November 9, 2009 - 10:26amThis Comment
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