Stress Management

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Stress Management

Cortisol

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com

Created: December 09, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and helps regulate blood pressure and cardiovascular function, as well as the body’s use of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Cortisol secretion increases in response to physical and psychological stress during the fight or flight response, which is why it’s sometimes called ‘the stress hormone’.
Also Known As: ‘The stress hormone’

Explore Stress Management

About.com Special Features

Do I Have Allergies?

Are your symptoms merely irritating, or could they be a sign of allergies? More >

Preventing Headaches

The best way to treat a headache is to prevent it. Learn how. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.

Stress Management

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Stress Management
  4. Understanding Stress
  5. Stress Management Glossary
  6. Cortisol

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.