Feeling unusually tired, gaining weight around your midsection, and noticing a round, puffy face, may be symptoms associated with Cushing syndrome. This can lead to significant health issues if not addressed on time.
Cushing syndrome occurs when the body produces too much cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress. This excess cortisol can be caused by various factors, including prolonged use of corticosteroid medications or tumors in the pituitary or adrenal glands.
Common symptoms of Cushing syndrome include rapid weight gain, particularly in the abdomen and face, easy bruising, and skin changes such as purple stretch marks. Other symptoms may include high blood pressure, diabetes, and osteoporosis. You might also struggle with mood swings and have trouble sleeping.
The condition can arise from various causes, including adrenal tumors, pituitary adenomas, or ectopic ACTH syndrome, where other tumors produce cortisol-stimulating hormones.
Check out the complications of Cushing syndrome:
Diabetes: Cushing syndrome can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Increased cortisol levels can interfere with glucose metabolism and make blood sugar levels difficult to control.
Hypertension: High cortisol levels contribute to high blood pressure. This condition can strain the cardiovascular system and lead to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Osteoporosis: Excess cortisol can weaken bones by reducing bone density, making fractures more likely. This complication often leads to chronic pain and mobility issues.
Infections: Cortisol suppresses the immune system, which can lead to a higher susceptibility to infections. Those with Cushing syndrome may find it more challenging to fight off common illnesses.
Mental health problems: Cushing syndrome can contribute to mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. The hormonal imbalance can affect brain chemistry and impact your mental well-being.
Menstrual irregularities: More women than men are prone to Cushing syndrome. Women with Cushing syndrome may experience changes in their menstrual cycles, including missed periods or irregular bleeding, due to hormonal imbalances. It affects their reproductive health.
Skin problems: If you have Cushing syndrome you may develop skin issues, such as thinning skin, easy bruising, and the formation of purple stretch marks, due to the effects of excess cortisol on skin structure and repair mechanisms.
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