Elevated cortisol levels in the body--a condition called hypercortisolism or Cushing syndrome--occur when your adrenal glands within your kidneys produce too much of this hormone. High levels of cortisol most frequently occur in patients between the ages of 20 and 50, explains PDR Health, a medical information website established by publishers of the Physicians' Desktop Reference. Talk with your doctor if you develop elevated cortisol symptoms to ensure that you receive appropriate treatment and care.
Weight Gain
One of the most common symptoms of elevated cortisol levels in the body is progressive weight gain, explain health officials at Up To Date, a peer-reviewed health information website for patients. High cortisol levels typically cause excess fat to accumulate around the face or neck, causing patients to exhibit round, puffy facial features that are collectively referred to as "moon" face. These patients may also experience weight gain around the neck or abdomen that occurs in conjunction with thinning of the legs and arms.
Fragile Skin
If you have high cortisol levels, you can notice that your skin appears thin or fragile. You may bruise easily, even after minor injuries, or find that it takes longer than usual for your skin to heal from injury, explain health officials at the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service. You can develop red, pink or purple stretch marks across the skin of your arms, thighs, stomach, buttocks or breasts. These symptoms of elevated cortisol levels most commonly occur in regions of the body where weight gain has occurred.
Excess Hair Growth
Certain patients--especially women--who have high cortisol levels experience excess hair growth as a symptom of this condition, explains PDR Health. You can develop thick, coarse hair growth on your face or body, and may also develop persistent acne or excessively oily skin. Women can experience irregular or absent menstrual periods due to the overproduction of cortisol within the body.
Mood or Behavioral Changes
Up To Date reports that over 50 percent of patients who have elevated cortisol levels develop mood or behavioral changes due to this hormonal imbalance. Common symptoms include mood swings, depression, irritability, panic attacks, insomnia, anxiety or paranoia.
Low Libido and Fatigue
Men and women with high cortisol levels may have little or no interest in engaging in sexual activities (low libido) as a symptom of this condition. Men can have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual arousal, a condition called impotence. These symptoms may occur in conjunction with severe fatigue or weakness, which can have a significant impact on your intimate relationships.
