Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Bautista
Our Editorial Policy
Updated on: November 16, 2019
Cushing syndrome (hypercortisolism) occurs when the body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol for a prolonged period of time. The most common cause of Cushing syndrome is the use of oral corticosteroid medication, but it may also occur when the body overproduces cortisol due to malfunction or disease of the adrenal glands.
Typical signs of Cushing syndrome include a fatty hump between the shoulders, a rounding of the face, and pink or purple stretch marks on the skin. Cushing syndrome can lead to high blood pressure, bone loss, and in rare cases, diabetes.
Cushing syndrome symptoms vary greatly, and are often different in men and women. Symptoms include:
- Weight gain and fatty tissue deposits, particularly in midsection, upper back, face (moon face), and between the shoulders (buffalo hump)
- Pink or purple stretch marks (striae) on abdomen, thighs, breasts, and arms
- Thin, fragile skin that bruises easily
- Slow healing of cuts, insect bites, and infection
- Acne
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Depression, anxiety, and irritability
- Loss of emotional control
- Cognitive difficulties
- New or worsened high blood pressure
- Glucose intolerance (may lead to diabetes)
- Headache
- Bone loss (leading to fractures over time)
Cushing syndrome symptoms specific to women include:
- Thicker or more visible body and facial hair (hirsutism)
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Cushing syndrome symptoms specific to men include:
- Decreased libido
- Decreased fertility
- Erectile dysfunction
At Immunity Therapy Center, our goal is to provide objective, updated, and research-based information on all health-related topics. This article is based on scientific research and/or other scientific articles. All information has been fact-checked and reviewed by Dr. Carlos Bautista, a Board Certified Medical Doctor at Immunity Therapy Center. All information published on the site must undergo an extensive review process to ensure accuracy. This article contains trusted sources with all references hyperlinked for the reader's visibility.
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