When should you suspect Cushings?

Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure of the body’s tissues to high levels of the hormone cortisol. This can be due to taking glucocorticoid medicines for a long time or the body producing too much cortisol.

Suspecting Cushing’s syndrome is not always straightforward because the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that might lead a healthcare provider to suspect Cushing’s syndrome.

One of the most common symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome is rapid weight gain particularly in the face, chest, and abdomen, while the arms and legs remain slender. This is sometimes referred to as “moon face” or “buffalo hump”.

Skin changes are also common in Cushing’s syndrome. The skin may become thin and fragile, and bruises easily. Purple or pink stretch marks may appear on the skin, especially on the abdomen, thighs, and breasts.

People with Cushing’s syndrome may also experience extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, and high blood pressure. Women may have irregular or absent menstrual periods and excessive hair growth on the face, neck, chest, abdomen, and thighs. Men may have decreased fertility, erectile dysfunction, and loss of sexual interest.

Psychological symptoms are also common and may include depression, anxiety, and irritability. Some people may have cognitive difficulties, such as memory and attention problems.

If you or someone else has these symptoms, especially if they are taking glucocorticoid medicines, it’s important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can do a physical exam and look for signs of Cushing’s syndrome. They may also do tests to measure levels of cortisol in the urine, saliva, and blood, and imaging tests to look for abnormalities in the adrenal or pituitary glands.

Remember, early diagnosis and treatment of Cushing’s syndrome can significantly improve a person’s quality of life and prevent serious complications. Therefore, if you suspect Cushing’s syndrome, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.