How do ACTH and Cortisol affect your weight?

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How ACTH and Cortisol can cause Weight Gain

Weight gain can be related to a number of factors.  If you have unexplained weight loss that can’t seem to be managed by diet and lifestyle changes, hormones like ACTH and Cortisol may be to blame.  Adrenocorticotropic Hormone or ACTH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.  The primary purpose of ACTH is to control the production of cortisol by the adrenal glands.  Cortisol plays an important part in metabolism, the process of how the body uses food and energy.  Too much cortisol can cause weight gain and a buildup of fat.  Blood testing for ACTH can help identify disorders affecting the pituitary or adrenal glands that are responsible for weight gain.

The effects of ACTH and Cortisol on weight

Cushing Disease is caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland that stimulates it to produce extra ACTH.  This in turn causes excess cortisol production.  Cushing disease is the most common cause of Cushing Syndrome, a disorder caused by overproduction of Cortisol over a long period of time.  A common characteristic of Cushing Syndrome is weight gain, especially in the face, shoulders, chest, and stomach. 

Disorders like Addison’s disease that affect the pituitary glands can also raise ACTH levels.  When the adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol, the Pituitary will keep producing ACH in an attempt to stimulate cortisol production.

It is common to test ACTH and Cortisol blood levels at the same time.  Determining if one or both of these hormone levels are too high or too low can be more useful than just measuring one of them by itself.

• High ACTH with high Cortisol could indicate Cushing’s disease.
• Low ACTH with high cortisol could indicate Cushing’s Syndrome
• High ACTH with low cortisol may indicate Addison’s disease.
• Low ACTH with low cortisol may indicate an overactive pituitary gland.

It’s important to discuss irregular results with your doctor to determine the best course of action.

Symptoms of High and Low ACTH

Most of the symptoms a person experiences due to levels of ACTH that are too high or too low are actually due to the consequential raising or lowering of their cortisol levels.  Symptoms of too much cortisol include weight gain, excess fat in the shoulders, stretch marks, easily bruised skin, increased body hair growth, acne, weakness, and fatigue.  Too little cortisol can cause symptoms that include weight loss, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, darkened skin, and fatigue.

Where can I test my ACTH and Cortisol levels?

Blood testing for ACTH and Cortisol levels is quick and affordable thanks to Request A Test.  We offer lab testing at over 4,000 nationwide locations that anyone can order without having to see a doctor or get approval from an insurance provider.  We also offer other hormone tests including urine and salivary cortisol testing that can also be helpful in identifying disorders like Cushing and Addison's disease.  You can order online any time and go to a lab near you at your convenience. If you need assistance finding the test that best suits your needs, our team is here to help.  Just reach out to us during business hours at 888-732-2348.  Weight gain due to irregular ACTH or cortisol levels can have long-term consequences for your well-being.  Don't wait to take charge of your health.  Contact Request A Test today.

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