What condition can result from high cortisol levels in males?

The condition that can result from high cortisol levels in males is actually low testosterone levels. High cortisol, often a result of chronic stress, can interfere with the body’s hormone balance. When cortisol is elevated, it can lead to a suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which in turn can decrease the production of testosterone. This decreased testosterone level can contribute to various health issues, including reduced libido, fatigue, and muscle mass loss.

Elevated cortisol may also affect other hormone levels, but the impact on testosterone is particularly significant. It is essential to recognize the intricate balance of hormones in the body where stress hormones like cortisol can disrupt the normal regulatory mechanisms, leading to lower testosterone production rather than an elevation in progesterone or estrogen levels.

While high cortisol levels may play a role in additional hormonal changes, such as some women experiencing increased estrogen levels, in males, the most direct and impactful result is the reduction in testosterone. Adrenal fatigue, while often discussed in relation to chronic stress and sustained high cortisol, is not an officially recognized medical condition and does not serve as a straightforward outcome of elevated cortisol levels.