A stress-induced increase in cortisol secretion is beneficial in the short-term, excessive or prolonged cortisol secretion may lead to high cortisol symptoms. The symptoms of high cortisol can have serious effects on both body and mind.
The symptoms of too much cortisol develop gradually and mostly overlap with many other conditions and include: Depression, Fatigue, Weight gain especially in the face, upper back and torso, obesity, Back pain, Thin skin, Swelling in the hands and feet, Acne, Impaired memory, Insomnia, Menstrual abnormalities, Blood sugar disregulation/high blood sugar, Decreased bone mineral density, High blood pressure