Corticosterone

High levels of corticosterone, the stress hormone, could indicate that your body is under significant stress or strain. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as a physically or emotionally demanding lifestyle, certain medications like corticosteroids, or health conditions like Cushing's syndrome, which causes your adrenal glands to produce too much of this hormone. High corticosterone levels could also be a sign that your body is fighting off an infection or inflammation, as this hormone plays a key role in regulating your immune response. Additionally, it could suggest disruptions in your sleep-wake cycle, as corticosterone helps control your alertness during the day and readiness for sleep at night. In essence, high corticosterone levels could mean your body is working hard to adapt to challenges and maintain balance.

Symptoms of high levels of corticosterone could include fatigue, difficulty sleeping, weight gain, mood swings, high blood pressure, and frequent infections due to a weakened immune system.

Low levels of corticosterone, the stress hormone, could mean your body isn't responding to stress as effectively as it should. This hormone, made by your adrenal glands, helps you react to sudden changes around you. It also plays a role in controlling your immune response, reducing swelling, and keeping your energy levels steady. Plus, it helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, so you feel awake during the day and ready to sleep at night. Certain medications, like steroids, can lower corticosterone levels. Also, conditions like Addison's disease, which affects your adrenal glands, could lead to lower levels of this hormone. So, if your corticosterone levels are low, it might be harder for your body to handle stress, keep your energy up, and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

Symptoms of low levels of corticosterone could include fatigue, difficulty handling stress, irregular sleep patterns, and frequent bouts of illness due to a weakened immune response.