What Does a Low Cortisol Blood Level Mean?
If you are feeling tired, but unable to sleep soundly through the night; or if you are feeling “overly” stressed and emotionally overwhelmed, you may be experiencing a condition known as adrenal fatigue. Chronic stress can cause your adrenals to “conk out” and temporarily lose their ability to produce enough hormone (cortisol); causing a hormonal imbalance and hindering your ability to cope with your stress. Low cortisol levels can also cause you to feel depressed and irritable; symptoms that may begin to interfere with your work and social life. What is Cortisol? Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands, which are stimulated by a pituitary hormone known as, adrenocorticotropic (ACTH). Aeron Lifecycles Clinical Laboratories reports that cortisol is responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system, glucose regulation, vascular system and skeletal system. Cortisol levels often rise in the morning and dissipate at night; a harmonious cycle referred to as “circadian rhythm.” D
