Feb 17, 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 response to stress.

What is a cortisol test? A cortisol test measures the level of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a hormone your adrenal glands make. The test checks if you have too much or too little of the hormone.

Your adrenal glands release cortisol during times of stress to help your body get an energy boost and better handle an emergency situation. Aldosterone. Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone that …

Jun 24, 2024 · When your body produces too much cortisol, it can cause Cushing’s syndrome. Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder that causes symptoms known as Cushingoid facies or …

Jun 4, 2025 · Dexamethasone is a human-made version of cortisol. If you take it, your adrenal glands should respond by making less cortisol. But, if you have Cushing syndrome, your body will not …

Apr 12, 2024 · What is the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis? The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a communication system between three organs. It’s crucial for your body’s …

Jan 28, 2026 · Cushing syndrome is a rare hormonal condition that happens when your body has too much cortisol. Cortisol is an important hormone that controls many bodily functions. But having too …

Addison’s disease is a chronic condition in which your adrenal glands don’t produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone. It's treatable.

Aug 30, 2025 · Buffalo Hump A buffalo hump (dorsocervical fat pad hypertrophy) is a visible lump at the base of the back of your neck from excess body fat. It has several possible causes, but high cortisol …

Your circadian rhythm is the pattern your body follows based on a 24-hour day. Learn more about how it works and what affects it.