Weight gain: Excess cortisol can cause weight gain, particularly around the midsection and upper back
Changes in body shape: High cortisol levels can lead to a redistribution of fat, resulting in a rounder face and a fatty hump between the shoulders
Skin changes: Increased cortisol levels can cause skin changes such as bruising and purplish stretch marks
Changes in mood: Excess cortisol can affect mood and lead to changes such as anxiety, irritability, and depression
Sleep disturbances: Cortisol plays a role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, and high cortisol levels can disrupt sleep patterns
Irregular menstrual cycles: In women, high cortisol levels can cause irregular or absent periods