Table of contents:
- What is cortisol?
- What is the function of cortisol in the body?
- What happens when the body has an excess and insufficient amount of cortisol?
Cortisol is a type of steroid hormone that affects how the body responds to stress. Yes, cortisol has often been labeled negative because this hormone is produced when you are under stress. In fact, unlike many people thought, this hormone, which is often called hydrocortisone, is important for the human body. What is cortisol and what does it do for human health? Check out the explanation below, yes.
What is cortisol?
Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands themselves are a hormone producer that is above the kidneys. Cortisol will then be released into the blood and circulated throughout the body.
Cortisol has various effects on cells. This is because almost every cell has a cortisol receptor which reacts according to its function when stimulated.
What is the function of cortisol in the body?
Cortisol plays a role in controlling metabolism, namely all chemical processes that occur in the human body. Therefore, cortisol is a hormone that is responsible for carrying out the following things:
- Regulate blood sugar levels
- Fight inflammation in the body
- Affects memory formation
- Control the balance of salt and water in the body
- Adjusting blood pressure with body conditions
- Helping fetal development in pregnant women
Cortisol production is controlled by three organs in the body: the hypothalamus in the brain, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands. Normally, cortisol is present in the body at reasonable levels. When the level of cortisol in the blood decreases, these three organs will work together to trigger cortisol production.
Other factors such as stress or physical activity that you do also affect the cortisol production process. When you are stressed or you are exercising, the production of the hormone cortisol will increase. This happens so that your body is able to respond or adapt to the trigger factors mentioned earlier.
For example, when you are exercising, you certainly need a large amount of energy. Well, cortisol must carry out its function as a blood sugar regulator so that sugar can be processed into an energy source. That way, your body will be able to adapt to the increased energy needs and you can work out smoothly.
What happens when the body has an excess and insufficient amount of cortisol?
Too much or too little amount of cortisol can cause problems for your health. Too much cortisol is caused by a tumor that produces adrenocorticotropic hormone, or you are taking certain types of drugs. Symptoms of excess cortisol levels are:
- Gaining weight
- Red or swollen face
- High blood pressure
- Osteoporosis
- Skin problems (eg, bruising or appearance stretch marks purplish)
- Easily thirsty and urinate frequently
- Mood swing which causes anxiety, anxiety, or depression
Meanwhile, symptoms of a deficiency in cortisol levels are:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness, especially when you suddenly stand up
- Weight loss
- Muscle weakness
- Mood swings
If you show symptoms of cortisol excess or deficiency, several tests may be done to check your cortisol levels. This examination includes blood tests, saliva tests, and urine tests.
