High cortisol levels can disrupt sleep patterns, causing individuals to wake up between 2:00 and 3:00 a.m. and struggle to return to sleep.
Chronic high cortisol can lead to fatigue in the morning, as it suppresses melatonin production and affects sleep quality.
Elevated cortisol is linked to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and metabolic syndrome due to prolonged stress responses.
Physical changes associated with high cortisol include muscle loss in the buttocks and thighs, along with increased abdominal fat.
Individuals with high cortisol often experience a rounded, puffy face due to fat accumulation and water retention.
High cortisol levels can lead to cravings for salty foods, as the body seeks to maintain blood pressure and fluid balance during stress.
Symptoms of high cortisol also include acid reflux, purple stretch marks, and increased susceptibility to infections due to a weakened immune response.