Adrenaline, Cortisol and Heart – Stress Hormones Redefining Cardiac Events

Adrenaline boosts heart rate and blood pressure, while cortisol elevates blood sugar levels and suppresses non-essential bodily functions to prioritize immediate survival

When the human body encounters stress—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—it responds by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, often referred to as “stress hormones.” These hormones form part of our natural defense mechanism, designed to help us react swiftly in threatening situations through the classic “fight or flight” response. Adrenaline boosts heart rate and blood pressure, while cortisol elevates blood sugar levels and suppresses non-essential bodily functions to prioritize immediate survival. Dr. C. Raghu, Clinical Director & Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad shares all you need to know:

However, when stress becomes chronic, this constant hormonal surge can take a serious toll on heart health. Persistently high cortisol levels can lead to hypertension, elevated blood sugar, and changes in lipid metabolism, all of which contribute to atherosclerosis—the gradual buildup of plaque inside the arteries that restricts blood flow. Chronic exposure to adrenaline can also cause arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, placing additional strain on the heart muscle and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

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