Stress Awareness Month – The Importance of Cortisol

By: Physicians Preference RX

April is National Stress Awareness month. I can’t say I know anyone who doesn’t encounter at least one stressor on a daily basis, whether it is work, home or school related.

Cortisol is a hormone our bodies naturally produce to help fight the adrenal fatigue that occurs when we are faced with either emotional or physical stress. As we age our bodies sometimes do not produce the amount of cortisol necessary, which is what leads to adrenal fatigue.

Common symptoms of adrenal fatigue are the inability to bounce back from stressful situations, a small amount of stress sending you over the edge, muscle and or joint pain, recurrent infections, allergies, anxiety or panic attacks, depression, low blood sugar and or blood pressure, and chronic fatigue.

According to an article from the cortisol connection, “Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced in the cortex of the adrenal glands. Cortisol assists you in regulating blood pressure, cardiovascular functions, and your body’s use of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.”

“Cortisol is also involved in glucose metabolism, insulin release for blood sugar maintenance, and inflammatory response. Cortisol helps in responding to and coping with stress, trauma and environmental extremes. Normal levels of cortisol increases energy and metabolism and helps regulate blood pressure. Cortisol also enhances the integrity of blood vessels and reduces allergic and inflammatory responses.”

Contact Physicians Preference Pharmacy at 281-828-9088 for your cortisol and hormone needs. It will be our privilege to serve you!

We hope everyone has a stress-free month!