‘Cortisol increase after earthquake can cause diseases’
Internal medicine specialist Dr. Özgün İyigün stated that cortisol can increase levels of the stress hormone in sudden shocks such as earthquakes. Explaining that cortisol maintains blood pressure normally, Iyigun said, “It prevents the development of infections, strengthens the body’s immune system by increasing the production of antibodies, regulates blood sugar levels, regulates sleep patterns, regulates water-salt balance, aids healing and prevents the formation of inflammation. However, in situations such as earthquakes that can cause sudden shocks, cortisol can be released high. This situation, that is, high levels of cortisol over a long time, weaken the immune system and can cause various diseases. In sudden inflammation, the release of cortisol, that is, the stress hormone, protects against sudden dangers; the body becomes vulnerable to disease,” he said.
“FEAR OF EARTHQUAKE MAY RISE CORTISOL”
Ozgun Iyigun said, “Because of the recent earthquake, we should not be exposed to the talk, news and images about it,” adding, “Anxiety and fear can increase the release of stress hormones. For this reason, the earthquake should be spoken and exposure to news and images about the earthquake that cannot be controlled should be avoided.
“THE RISK OF HEART DISEASES MAY INCREASE”
Iyigun explained that the high and prolonged release of cortisol will constrict the arteries in the body, increase heart rate and cause hypertension, Iyigun said:
“This can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and cerebrovascular disease. The risk of heart attack increases due to the increase in blood pressure in the capillaries with the action of cortisol. Cortisol raises blood pressure by trapping sodium in the body, which causes the arteries to contract and narrow, causing hypertension. Moreover, migraines and tension headaches are seen to increase due to the constriction of the vessels after the stress caused by shocking situations such as earthquakes.
“CAUTION WITH HIGH TENSION AND WEIGHT INCREASE”
Internal medicine specialist Dr. Özgün İyigün stated that the hormone cortisol manifests itself with some symptoms and listed them as follows:
“Weight gain
development of diabetes
high bloodpressure
high cholesterol
Tendency to infections
Weakness and fracture in bones
tendency to clot in the blood
Cerebrovascular disorders
Depression
mood disorder
concentration disorder
Irregular periods in women”
“CAUSES STOMACH AND SOIL PROBLEMS”
Iyigun also explained that cortisol hormone increases gastric acid secretion and also causes gastrointestinal problems. Iyigun noted that stomach ulcer, reflux indigestion can be seen as a result of excessive tension, and said: “Constipation, diarrhea, intestinal irregularities, bloating and gas symptoms are also observed.”
“MUST STAY AWAY FROM EXCESSIVE TEA AND COFFEE”
Claiming that the cortisol hormone is lowered from high levels with lifestyle changes, Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Iyigun said, “It can help people avoid excessive tea and coffee consumption, give importance to exercise, eat high-fiber foods, pay attention to sleep patterns, eat a healthy diet, and take vitamin C and magnesium supplements.”