Top Cushing's Disease Symptoms to Watch For

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Sep 24, 2024

Advertisement

Cushing's disease throws the body's hormones—specifically cortisol—completely out of balance. Often, it's triggered as a side effect of certain medications, particularly corticosteroids. But let's not get things twisted—don't confuse Cushing's disease with Cushing's syndrome. While Cushing's syndrome refers to a collection of symptoms associated with excess cortisol, Cushing's disease specifically points to a pituitary gland tumor causing these issues. This condition is serious and can even be life-threatening.

Because the disease can cause severe physical symptoms, individuals taking corticosteroid medications should be aware of ways to protect themselves from Cushing's disease. Each year, the illness affects up to 3 million people. It can also be inherited, but the chances are pretty slim. Treatment for Cushing's syndrome often mirrors that of cancer, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and drugs that inhibit cortisol production. Since various conditions and medications can lead to this illness, a significant number of individuals are at risk. Therefore, it's important to know the ten most common signs of Cushing's disease.

Pituitary Adenoma

Pituitary adenomas are tumors that develop in the pituitary gland. They come in three categories based on severity: benign, invasive, and carcinogenic. While most are harmless, about 35% are invasive, and a small 0.2% are cancerous. Interestingly, this condition accounts for up to 70% of Cushing's syndrome cases. Regardless of severity, pituitary adenomas cause an over-secretion of cortisol. Compared to other sources of excess cortisol, these adenomas are the biggest contributors to Cushing's overall. So, keeping an eye out for symptoms of pituitary adenomas is key.

Advertisement

Weight Gain

When cortisol levels spiral out of their natural balance, various bodily functions start acting up. One telltale sign of excess cortisol is uncontrolled weight gain. Those affected may experience rapid fat accumulation, especially in the midsection, chest, upper back, and between the shoulders. Another noticeable change is the alteration of facial shape. Someone with a normal weight and facial structure might appear obese within just a few months. Interestingly, the arms and legs may even become thinner—a clear indicator of abundant cortisol production.

Advertisement

Stretch Marks

Rapid skin expansion due to weight gain can lead to pink or purple stretch marks appearing on the abdomen, thighs, arms, and breasts. Over a year, this symptom can worsen significantly. Unfortunately, stretch marks won't heal on their own. Many people opt for laser surgery to remove them once the underlying cause—cortisol overproduction—is addressed. So, if you notice these marks spreading, it's time to consult a healthcare professional.

Advertisement

Slow Regeneration

The body's natural healing ability largely depends on white blood cells in the bloodstream. However, when there's a cortisol overload, this healing process slows down considerably. You might find that a simple scratch takes four or five months to heal completely. Bruises could linger as dark purple spots much longer than usual. Along with weight gain, slow healing is a hallmark of Cushing's disease. It's a glaring sign that something's amiss and medical attention is needed.

Advertisement

Erectile Dysfunction

Hormonal imbalance caused by excess cortisol can heavily impair bodily functions regulated by sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. In men, this often leads to erectile dysfunction. The journey starts with decreased fertility and low libido, eventually making sexual arousal nearly impossible. Additionally, increased fat tissue around the genital area can further impede penile function. Even if an erection occurs, it may be weak and difficult to maintain. Addressing cortisol levels can help alleviate these issues.

Advertisement

Hirsutism and Absence of Periods

In women, two significant signs are hirsutism—thickening of body hair—and missed menstrual periods. Women may have a slightly higher chance of experiencing uncontrolled weight gain due to hormonal fluctuations and medications like contraceptive pills. Therefore, noticing increased body hair alongside missed periods is a strong indicator of Cushing's disease in women. This symptom also often includes a significant decrease in fertility, making pregnancy nearly impossible. It's important to seek medical advice to manage these symptoms effectively.

Advertisement

Severe Fatigue

Cortisol, often called the "stress hormone," helps regulate various bodily processes. When someone is affected by Cushing's disease, they begin experiencing side effects similar to chronic stress. Cortisol might not damage nerves like actual stress does, but it certainly drains energy. Those suffering from Cushing's will notice persistent exhaustion, no matter how much they sleep. If you're feeling constantly fatigued without a clear reason, it's worth getting your cortisol levels checked.

Advertisement

Depression, Anxiety, Irritability

Depression, anxiety, and irritability are common responses to everyday stress. Similarly, constant cortisol production without actual stress can make an individual feel these emotions intensely. One of the extra challenges of Cushing's disease is that it may lead to serious mental health issues over time. Depending on how long the disease lasts, sufferers can experience significant psychological disturbances. Therefore, mental health support is crucial alongside medical treatment.

Advertisement

Cognitive Difficulties

The relentless production of cortisol keeps the brain in overdrive, making social interactions and cognitive tasks challenging. People with this illness often find it hard to concentrate on work or studies. They're understandably preoccupied with the physical and mental changes they're experiencing due to dramatically increased cortisol levels. If focusing becomes a struggle, it's a sign that medical intervention is necessary to manage cortisol production.

Advertisement

Loss of Emotional Control

As cortisol continues to affect the brain, controlling emotions becomes increasingly difficult. Sufferers may experience frequent emotional outbursts, which can strain professional and personal relationships. These sudden mood swings are not just hard on the individual but also on those around them. Seeking treatment is the best way to regain emotional stability and improve quality of life.

Advertisement

You May Also Like