Disease Caused by Cortisol
Addison’s disease can be caused by primary problems with the adrenal glands or with the pituitary gland. In this, the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of cortisol. People of all ages are susceptible to this condition and approximately one in 100,000 people per year is likely to be affected. Fatigue, low blood pressure, weight loss, weakness, loss of appetite, moodiness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea are among the symptoms. This also affects the production of other hormones by the adrenal. Reduced levels of the hormone aldosterone, which is important for body salt and water balance, often accompany the reduction in cortisol.
Pharmacology
Cortisol is also known as hydrocortisone, as an oral or injectable drug. It is used as an immunosuppressive drug, given by injection in the treatment of severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema. It is administered in place of prednisolone in patients requiring steroid treatment but unable to take oral medication. It is used peri-operatively in patients on long-term steroid treatment, in order to prevent an Addisonian crisis.
For its anti-inflammatory effect in allergic rashes, eczema and certain other inflammatory conditions, it is administered through topical application.
Cortisol Test
To help diagnose Cushing syndrome and Addison disease, two serious adrenal disorders, blood and urine tests for cortisol are used. Although these uses are not widespread, some physicians make use of salivary cortisol to diagnose Cushing syndrome and to evaluate possible stress-related disorders.
Cortisol levels are slightly higher in adults than in the case of children. Cortisol levels are very low at bedtime, and at the highest just after waking up in the morning, in normal people. This pattern is typically lost in Cushing syndrome. Therefore, bedtime cortisol is often used when this diagnosis is suspected.
High levels of cortisol indicate Cushing syndrome, and low levels suggest Addison disease.
Cortisol levels are also increased by pregnancy, along with physical and emotional stress. Cortisol level is likely to be increased when one undergoes stress, and these levels go up significantly when one is sick. Hyperthyroidism or obesity can also lead to an increase in cortisol levels. Oral contraceptives, hydrocortisone, and spironolactone are among a number of drugs that can also increase levels.
Cortisol levels might decrease on account of hypothyroidism. Some steroid hormones are also included in the drugs that may decrease levels.
Recommended: Fastest Way To Permanent Weight Loss
|