Cortisol and Autoimmune Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis & Allergies - Understanding the Link

Patients with Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and allergies often have lower levels of cortisol than normal. Scientists have studied the link between cortisol and autoimmune diseases since the 1950s, but there is little conclusive evidence on the subject.

Cortisol

• Cortisol is a natural stress hormone. It raises glucose levels, helps repair tissue damage, modifies reactions of the immune system and curbs the appetite.

Allergies

• Allergies symptoms occur when the immune system attacks harmless substances in the body, such as food or pollen. The unnecessary immune system response can lead to a weakened immune system.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

• RA occurs when the immune system damages joints. Symptoms include, joint pain, swelling, fatigue and fever.

Effects

• Low levels of cortisol affect the healing process and the immune responses, and many who suffer from RA and allergy symptoms need extra time to repair damage. Treatments with glucocorticoids have improved symptoms.

Warning

• Stress can cause high levels of cortisol, and it's potentially dangerous. Cortisol should be carefully monitored by a doctor because it is also a symptom of other diseases such as Cushings.