Adrenaline levels: how the stress hormone affects the body

Adrenaline is one of the most well-known hormones in the human body. It is also called "«stress hormone»" or "fight or flight hormone", because it is responsible for the instant mobilization of the body in response to danger. But not always an increased or decreased level of adrenaline is the norm. It can affect mental state, heart function, blood pressure, sleep and even metabolism.

Understanding how adrenaline works and how its levels change helps you better control your well-being, combat anxiety, and conserve energy.

What is adrenaline?

Adrenaline is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands. Its secretion increases in response to stress, fear, physical exertion, pain, or danger.

The main functions of adrenaline:

• increases heart rate

• constricts blood vessels, increasing blood pressure

• stimulates the breakdown of glycogen in the liver to release energy

• reduces the activity of the digestive system

• increases blood glucose levels

• dilates the airways to improve oxygen supply

What can the adrenaline level be?

Normally, adrenaline levels in the blood rise for a short period and then fall rapidly. The problems begin when levels remain constantly elevated or lowered.

Causes of elevated adrenaline levels

• chronic or acute stress

• panic attacks

• strong emotions (fear, anger)

• intense physical activity

• some adrenal gland tumors (pheochromocytoma)

• dehydration or hypoglycemia

• acute pain syndromes

Consequences of prolonged excess adrenaline

• hypertension (persistent high blood pressure)

• sleep disturbance

• anxiety disorders

• weakening of the immune system

• digestive problems

• adrenal exhaustion

• emotional burnout

Over time, constantly elevated adrenaline can lead to disruption of adaptation mechanisms and even to exhaustion — the body ceases to respond effectively to stress.

Signs of low adrenaline levels

• chronic fatigue

• indifference to stimuli

• daytime drowsiness

• low blood pressure

• dizziness, especially when standing up suddenly

• impaired concentration and memory

This condition is often observed after prolonged stress or overwork - when the body loses its reserves of hormonal response.

How to check your adrenaline level

The adrenaline test is performed on venous blood or urine. It is more commonly used daily urine analysis for an average level assessment.

Preparation:

• 24 hours before the analysis, you should avoid stress, alcohol, coffee, bananas, and chocolate

• stop taking certain medications (with the doctor's approval)

• the analysis is given on an empty stomach

How to normalize adrenaline levels

At elevated levels:

• meditation, breathing exercises

• reducing the amount of stimulants (coffee, energy drinks)

• regular but moderate exercise (yoga, walking)

• Sleep: at least 7–8 hours

• limiting negative information flows

• warm baths, nature, emotional detox

At a reduced level:

• short-term physical activity (running, swimming)

• contrast shower

• rich nutrition (vitamins B, C, protein)

• sufficient water intake

• setting short-term goals to stimulate motivation

When to see a doctor

If you feel constant tension, insomnia, tremors, rapid heartbeat or, conversely, loss of strength, apathy, frequent dizziness - it is worth consulting with an endocrinologist or neurologist. It is the specialist who will help determine whether the symptoms are related to a violation of the adrenaline level and prescribe the necessary examination.

Controlling adrenaline levels is not just about fighting stress, but about maintaining the harmonious functioning of the entire body. In a world of speed and emotional overload, it is one of the main elements of stable health.

Author: Ulyana Anatolyivna Dzyuba

Director of Medi Lab Plus LLC, a doctor of the highest category. Has over 45 years of practical experience in medicine and laboratory diagnostics. Founder and head of the laboratory since 2007. More details…