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The hypothalamus directs the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain) to produce ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone).         YES This hormone is released into the bloodstream and stimulates the body's two adrenal glands (located near the kidneys) to secrete glucocorticoid (cortisol) hormones into the bloodstream.         YES Cortisol helps the body respond to stress.         YES Impacts blood sugar levels, fat metabolism, skeletal muscles, kidney function, nervous system, cardiovascular system, immune response         YES Cortisol secretion is increased due to stress, infection, pain, surgery, trauma, cold temperatures.         YES When cortisol levels are high enough, the pituitary stops secreting it. When cortisol levels dip low enough, the pituitary secretes more.         YES The adrenals respond by secreting glucocorticoid hormones in response to the pituitary, just as the pituitary responds by secreting ACTH in response to the adrenals. The net effect is that a mildly fluctuating balance is achieved. YES In Cushings Disease something goes wrong with this process for one of three reasons: a pituitary tumour an adrenal tumour steroid use over a long period of time