Cortisol
Cortisol is a steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys. It affects almost every organ and tissue, helping manage the stress response, regulating how the body uses glucose for energy, reducing inflammation, controlling blood pressure and supporting the sleep-wake cycle.
Why it matters: The body keeps cortisol steady because both extremes are harmful.
Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters, what moves it, related conditions
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is Cortisol?
Cortisol is a steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys. It affects almost every organ and tissue, helping manage the stress response, regulating how the body uses glucose for energy, reducing inflammation, controlling blood pressure and supporting the sleep-wake cycle.
What might a high or low Cortisol mean?
The body keeps cortisol steady because both extremes are harmful.
What is the typical reference range for Cortisol?
The general-population reference range shown here is 171 – 536 nmol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.
What can affect Cortisol?
It may be higher with: Tumors that produce ACTH, Adrenal gland tumors. It may be lower with: Addison's disease, An underactive pituitary gland, Pituitary tumors, Sudden corticosteroid withdrawal.