Cortisol is one of the steroid hormones and is made in the adrenal glands. Most cells within the body have cortisol receptors. Secretion of the hormone is controlled by the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the adrenal gland.ow cortisol levels can cause a condition known as Addison's disease. While rare, Addison's disease is an autoimmune disease that causes damage to the adrenal glands. Symptoms may start slowly, but they can be quite serious.