Stress and Fatigue Resources
High levels of stress affect the intricate balance of many hormones, from those produced by the adrenal glands (including the “stress hormone” cortisol) to others such as testosterone, estrogens, and the thyroid hormones. The stress and fatigue resources on this page examine some of the interconnected effects of hormones and stress, as well as outline some actions you can take to manage stress and restore balance to the body’s systems.
HYPOADRENALISM
Stressful situations trigger adrenal activity. If the adrenal glands are not allowed to recover, they can become overworked, sometimes to the point of exhaustion.
STRESS-RELATED TINNITUS
A study of 344 patients with tinnitus demonstrated that elevated stress hormones, as well as a break-down product of serotonin, appear to be related to tinnitus.
FATIGUE
Not only is fatigue a symptom of many health conditions, it is also a result of lifestyle factors such as poor diet, dehydration, high stress and too little sleep.
HEALTHY SLEEP AND REST
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Chronic stress may alter cortisol production and lead to sleep problems.
HOLIDAY STRESS AND HORMONES
Learning to manage stress with life style, nutrients, hormones and perception may help restore more balanced functioning to many of the body’s systems.
HORMONES AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH
Thyroid hormones influence glucose levels and the release of stress hormones, two contributors to mood fluctuation. Thyroid deficiency may lead to depression.
HOW STRESS AFFECTS THYROID FUNCTION
Stress may contribute to thyroid dysfunction. Acute stress results in high cortisol levels, which interferes with the conversion of T4 to active T3.
