Fight, flight, and freeze are survival responses activated by the nervous system in threatening or stressful situations. When these responses are triggered, cortisol levels rise, which increases the body’s heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure, increases blood supply to the muscles, and strengthens the internal alert system. It’s a feeling similar to panic.
Technically speaking, this “fight-or-flight” mode reaction can occur even in situations that aren’t actually life-threatening, like when you’re stuck in traffic or feeling stressed at work. . That’s normal. But what? it’s not This is because prolonged negative emotions can chronically increase cortisol levels, which can affect your physical and mental health. (For example, you may have heard of the “cortisol face.”)
“High levels of cortisol are needed in stressful or dangerous situations, but once the situation passes, the levels should return to normal,” says Dr. Dr. Pilar Garcia d’Urutiaan expert in endocrinology at HM Monteprincipe University Hospital and a member of the Top Doctors Group. “However, repeated situations in which cortisol is continuously produced, such as when a person is under continuous stress, can lead to ‘chronic’ high levels of cortisol, which can be terrible for health.” may have consequences. ”
What is cortisol?
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, explains Dr. Durrutier. “The levels are highest between 7 and 8 a.m. and lowest at 11 p.m., indicating a circadian rhythm.”
According to Dr. Durrutier, cortisol plays a role in triggering a variety of metabolic and functional responses to cope with stressful situations, and helps reduce energy stores in the form of fat so that tissues can quickly obtain energy. and blood sugar levels. It also activates the nervous system, increasing alertness and disrupting sleep.
How does high cortisol affect your health?
Consistently high cortisol levels can cause high blood pressure, high blood sugar, insomnia, irritability, and increased body fat, which can lead to increased cardiovascular risk, Dr. Durruti says.
How much do high cortisol levels affect your mental health? “One of the most common signs is sleep disturbances and persistent fatigue, which throws the body’s natural rhythms out of balance.” Durruti says. “Furthermore, elevated cortisol keeps the brain in ‘alarm mode’ and drains mental energy, making anxiety and constant vigilance a part of everyday life. This is accompanied by decreased concentration and memory impairment due to the effects of cortisol on the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory and learning. ”
Other potential symptoms include digestive issues such as heartburn and inflammation. That’s because this hormone diverts energy from unnecessary functions and affects the digestive system, says psychologist and director Aleix Cortes. Kafka psychotherapy.
Signs of elevated cortisol levels
Wondering if you have high cortisol levels? According to psychologist Luis Guillen Plaza, here are eight potential symptoms. Centro de Psicología Psychopartner.
