When cortisol levels are low, the body can experience a range of symptoms that can be classified as stress. Low cortisol levels can disrupt the body's natural balance and lead to physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.
Physical symptoms of low cortisol levels include fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. People may also experience anxiety, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. They may also have difficulty sleeping, or they may feel excessively sleepy during the day.
Mental and emotional symptoms of low cortisol levels can include depression, apathy, and difficulty feeling pleasure. People may also experience an inability to feel motivated and a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
The effects of low cortisol levels can be further exacerbated by stress in one's life. Stress can increase the feeling of fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. It can also make it harder to fall asleep, or make it more difficult to stay asleep. Additionally, stress can make it harder to feel pleasure or to focus on tasks at hand.
In short, when cortisol levels are low, the body can experience a range of symptoms that can be classified as stress. Physical symptoms can include fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Mental and emotional symptoms can include depression, apathy, and difficulty feeling pleasure. Stress can further exacerbate these symptoms, making them more pronounced and difficult to manage.