WHat are the longterm effects of increased cortisol in the body?

Long Term Effects of Exposure to Cortisol

1. Altered eating patterns – most frequently overeating and weight gain; less frequently, undereating and weight loss followed by weight gain

    

2. Impaired immune response – increased risk of infection, inflammatory and autoimmune conditions

    

3. Changes in body composition – decreased muscle mass and increased fat deposition inside abdomen, decreased bone density(osteoporosis)

    

4. Mental health issues –suppression of reward systems, increased risk of depression, anxiety anger and frustration

    

5. Memory and Learning Impairment

    

6. Sleep impairment

    

7. Increased risk of heart attack

    

8. Reproductive dysfunction – irregular menstral cycles, decreased fertility, PMS