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How do I Treat High Cortisol Levels?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

Since high cortisol levels are primarily caused by stress, the best way to keep them under control is to reduce stress and anxiety. This can be achieved in any number of ways, including minimizing daily tasks, meditation, exercise, spending time with loved ones, and sometimes prescription medication. Engaging in any activity you find enjoyable is a good way to reduce stress and in turn, lower cortisol levels to a healthy number.

Cortisol is a hormone released by the body during times of stress, fear, or anxiety. It is often triggered by the release of another hormone, adrenaline, which is the chemical responsible for speeding up heart rate in order to provide more oxygen to the muscles for a “fight or flight” response. This is a good process during times of danger because it gives the body extra strength with which to handle danger. In modern society, on the other hand, excessively elevated levels of cortisol and adrenaline can lead to health problems and extra body fat.

The cortisol levels in the bloodstream spike when an individual is under stress.
The cortisol levels in the bloodstream spike when an individual is under stress.

The most effective ways to treat high cortisol levels is to reduce the amount of stress felt by the body. In most individuals who are chronically stressed due to work demands, family problems, or other outside stressors, simply taking a day off to relax may do the trick. Learning new coping methods, like deep breathing, may also help to reduce stress on a day to day basis. Eating a healthy diet, making time for fun, and getting adequate rest at night are also good ways to reduce stress.

Research has found that taking regular naps may reduce stress.
Research has found that taking regular naps may reduce stress.

Those with certain anxiety disorders may have chronically higher than normal cortisol levels, and normal anti-stress activities may not be enough to alleviate feelings of anxiety. Prescription medications may be needed, as well as therapy or counseling to discuss any underlying issues. These methods can be combined with the aforementioned methods for maximum results.

Chronic stress can lead to weight gain and a host of physical ailments.
Chronic stress can lead to weight gain and a host of physical ailments.

Exercise is a good way to treat high cortisol levels in anyone, including those with anxiety disorders. Cardiovascular activity causes the body to release “feel good” hormones in the bloodstream called endorphins. These are invaluable at not only boosting mood while exercising, but for hours afterward. Those who work out daily have much lower incidences of depression, anxiety, and stress when compared to those who lead a sedentary lifestyle.

Higher than normal cortisol levels can lead to hypertension and excess body fat.
Higher than normal cortisol levels can lead to hypertension and excess body fat.

There are some medications which claim to lower high cortisol levels for the purpose of weight loss. Before taking them, you should discuss your concerns with a doctor to determine if they are a safe option for you. Be sure to disclose any medications and supplements you may be taking.

Discussion Comments

anon110509

I am a 60 year old female. I have been feeling light headed for awhile. I was hospitalized two weeks ago. They injected me with cortisol to check my levels. That's when all the problems started. They said my levels were fine. I went home for three days, only to go back to the hospital.

My adrenal gland was hurting me. Then they checked my adrenal levels and said they were at a 4 which was low. So they started me on 5o mg Iv of hydrocortisone. I received that four times while in the hospital. They sent me home on Saturday with hydrocortisone pills 25mg daily. I have been so sick since all this started. I felt better before i went to the hospital. I sure hope you can give me some information. Thank you. Sincerely, Sema

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    • The cortisol levels in the bloodstream spike when an individual is under stress.
      By: zea_lenanet
      The cortisol levels in the bloodstream spike when an individual is under stress.
    • Research has found that taking regular naps may reduce stress.
      By: bst2012
      Research has found that taking regular naps may reduce stress.
    • Chronic stress can lead to weight gain and a host of physical ailments.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Chronic stress can lead to weight gain and a host of physical ailments.
    • Higher than normal cortisol levels can lead to hypertension and excess body fat.
      By: dambuster
      Higher than normal cortisol levels can lead to hypertension and excess body fat.
    • A sedentary lifestyle may contribute to high cortisol levels.
      By: imageegami
      A sedentary lifestyle may contribute to high cortisol levels.