What Happens When You Have Low Cortisol?

Low cortisol production is the result of adrenal gland insufficiency. Addison’s disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) occurs when the adrenal glands suffer some sort of damage, while secondary adrenal insufficiency results when the pituitary gland does not make enough of the hormone that stimulates the adrenal gland to produce cortisol.

Most Common Effects

• The hallmark effects of low cortisol levels typically develop slowly, according to the Mayo Clinic. They include worsening fatigue, muscle weakness, decreased appetite and weight loss.

Skin Conditions

• Primary adrenal insufficiency can cause hyperpigmentation, or dark patches of skin. This symptom does not affect those with secondary adrenal insufficiency, according to the National Endrocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Center.

Other Effects

• Those with low cortisol might also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, mood changes, low blood sugar, craving for salty foods, headache, sweating, menstruation problems, mouth lesions and changes in heart rate.

Addisonian Crisis

• Severely low levels of cortisol can trigger an "Addisonian crisis." Symptoms include pain in the lower back, stomach and legs, excessive vomiting and diarrhea, low blood pressure and loss of consciousness. These symptoms can come on suddenly, and necessitate immediate medical care.

Reducing Effects

• Replacing the insufficient cortisol with synthetic hormones constitutes primary treatment. Taking your medications as directed and getting regular testing as recommended by your doctor to make sure you are taking the right amounts can control the effects of low cortisol production.