The endocrine system produces hormones that can have effects throughout the body. One component of the endocrine system, the adrenal glands, makes cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that helps modulate how the body responds to stress. It can also be used pharmaceutically for conditions that cause inflammation.
Functions
As the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK) explains, cortisol has several roles in the human body. It helps maintain the proper blood pressure through the cardiovascular system. It also is involved in modulating the immune system by reducing inflammation. It also affects metabolism by increasing glucose levels in the blood and by regulating how the body processes fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
Regulation
Cortisol release is controlled by the hypothalamus and the pituitary. When the body needs to increase its cortisol levels, the hypothalamus (part of the brain) releases corticotropin-releasing hormone, which in turn stimulates the pituitary to release another hormone, called adrenocorticotropin. This hormone stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol.
Cortisol-Related Conditions
Lab Tests Online notes that abnormally low or abnormally high levels of cortisol can cause different health problems. Cushing's disease, for example, is caused by cortisol levels being unusually high. Symptoms of Cushing's disease include obesity combined with muscle weakness and muscle wasting. Low cortisol levels, on the other hand, can be a symptom of adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), which can lead to fatigue, weakness and hyperpigmentation of the skin.
Cortisol and Circadian Rhythm
Cortisol may also have a role in the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm) because its levels change throughout the day. Typically, people experience their lowest cortisol levels shortly after falling asleep and have the highest levels in the morning. Patients with unusual sleep-wake schedules, such as night-shift workers, or with hormonal diseases may have this pattern disrupted.
Therapeutic Use
Cortisol can also be used therapeutically for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Cortisol reduces swelling caused by inflammation and can be used topically to treat rashes and other skin problems or taken orally. Cortisol can also be injected into inflamed tissue to relieve pain and swelling.
