Cortisol: What It Is, Function, Symptoms & Levels - Cleveland Clinic
Feb 14, 2025 · Cortisol is a steroid hormone that your adrenal glands (the glands on top of your kidneys) make. Cortisol affects several aspects of your health and helps regulate your body’s …
Cushing Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment - Cleveland …
The adrenal glands (two small glands on top of your kidneys), pituitary gland (in your brain) and the hypothalamus (the part of your brain above the pituitary gland) control cortisol levels.
Cortisol Test: What It Is, Purpose, Types & Results
Apr 28, 2025 · A cortisol test measures the level of cortisol in your blood, pee or spit. It can help diagnose certain conditions, like Addison’s disease or Cushing syndrome.
Dexamethasone Suppression Test - Cleveland Clinic
Jun 4, 2025 · The test measures if your cortisol levels change after taking dexamethasone, and by how much. The test can also help determine if you have high cortisol due to excess …
Adrenal Crisis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Aug 3, 2022 · An adrenal crisis is a life-threatening condition in which your adrenal glands don’t make enough cortisol. If you have an adrenal insufficiency or show any signs of an adrenal …
What are Adaptogens & Types - Cleveland Clinic
Feb 10, 2022 · For example, if you’re stressed (elevated cortisol), an adaptogen will respond by reducing cortisol levels. If you experience chronic fatigue with low cortisol levels, an adaptogen …
Adrenal Gland: What It Is, Function, Symptoms & Disorders
May 13, 2022 · Cortisol. Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone that plays several important roles. It helps control your body’s use of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. It also suppresses …
Hypothalamus: What It Is, Function, Conditions & Disorders
Your hypothalamus, a structure deep in your brain, acts as your body’s smart control coordinating center. Its main function is to keep your body in a stable state called homeostasis.
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): What It Is & Function
Cortisol is widely known as the “stress hormone.” However, it has many important effects and functions throughout your body aside from regulating your body’s stress response.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis: What It Is
The main function of your HPA axis is to release cortisol (a glucocorticoid, or steroid hormone). This kicks off short-term bodily changes that allow you to respond to stress.