What is Cushing syndrome?
Cushing syndrome is a condition caused by having too much cortisol in the body over a long period of time. Cortisol is a hormone that helps control metabolism, blood pressure, stress response, and blood sugar levels.
The condition may develop from long-term use of steroid medicines or from tumors that affect hormone production. Without treatment, high cortisol levels can affect many parts of the body.
Cushing syndrome is most often caused by long-term corticosteroid medication use. It can also happen when the body makes too much cortisol because of a tumor in the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, or another part of the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Cushing syndrome often develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time.
Common symptoms include:
- Weight gain around the stomach and upper body
- Rounded or puffy face
- Fat buildup between the shoulders
- Thin skin that bruises easily
- Purple or pink stretch marks
- Muscle weakness
- Tiredness
- Acne
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar
- Mood changes such as anxiety or depression
- Irregular periods in women
- Increased facial or body hair in women
- Lower sex drive or fertility problems
How is it diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose Cushing syndrome by reviewing symptoms, medical history, and medication use. A physical exam can help identify common signs of excess cortisol.
Testing usually includes blood, saliva, or urine tests to measure cortisol levels. Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI may also be used to look for tumors or problems with the pituitary or adrenal glands.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on what is causing the high cortisol levels. If steroid medicines are the cause, providers may gradually lower the dose when it is safe to do so.
Other treatments may include:
- Surgery to remove a tumor
- Medicines that lower cortisol production
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy for certain cancers
Many people begin to feel better once cortisol levels return to a healthier range. Recovery can take time, and regular follow-up visits are important to monitor symptoms and hormone levels.
