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Cortisol Damping

Meaning

Cortisol Damping describes the physiological process or state characterized by a blunted or reduced overall amplitude of the normal diurnal cortisol curve, specifically a less pronounced peak in the morning and a less steep decline throughout the day. This alteration signifies a dysregulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, often seen in states of chronic, low-grade stress or HPA axis fatigue. Clinically, a damped cortisol profile is associated with symptoms like persistent fatigue, impaired immune function, and difficulty regulating inflammation. Restoration of a robust diurnal rhythm is a primary goal in hormonal health interventions.