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What are the symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome?

Signs and symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include: fast, unexplained weight gain, usually concentrated in the upper body, but thin limbs and buttocks; rounded face (‘moon face’) and a 'buffalo hump' of fat above the shoulders and around the neck; thin, fragile skin that bruises easily and purple-red lines or strips (striations), especially on the stomach, thighs, shoulders and upper arms; mood changes, irritability, anxiety, memory problems and poor concentration; sleep problems, insomnia; fatigue, weakness; thirst and frequent urination; in women, excess hair growth, menstrual changes, difficulty getting pregnant and diminished sex drive; in men, erectile dysfunction and decreased sex drive and fertility, and; in children, slow growth and bone weakness, leading to bone pain, back pain and other back problems.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is Cushing’s syndrome?

Cushing’s syndrome happens when the body is exposed to too much of the hormone cortisol.

What causes Cushing’s syndrome?

Cushing’s syndrome is caused by the body’s tissues being exposed to too much cortisol over time. This can be the result of taking glucocorticoid medication (substances that mimic the actions of cortisol), or of the body producing too much cortisol, often as …

How is Cushing’s syndrome diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose Cushing’s syndrome by taking your family and medical history, noting any medication you are taking, giving you a physical examination, running laboratory tests including urine tests and blood tests, measuring hormone levels …

How is Cushing’s syndrome treated?

Treatment depends on its cause. If Cushing’s syndrome is a side effect of taking glucocorticoid medication, your doctor may advise adjusting the type or dosage of your medication, or taking additional medication to relieve the symptoms. For tumours that …

Can Cushing’s syndrome be cured?

Treatment of Cushing’s syndrome is often effective.

Will Cushing’s syndrome clear on its own?

Cushing’s syndrome is not expected to clear on its own. Treatment is necessary in order to avoid complications.

Can Cushing’s syndrome be prevented?

You can prevent the harm caused by Cushing’s syndrome mostly by being aware of the symptoms, especially if you are taking glucocorticoid medication. If you have been treated for Cushing’s syndrome, know that it may relapse, so follow-up examinations are …

Will Cushing’s syndrome keep coming back?

Cushing’s syndrome can relapse. The risk varies according to the cause.

Is Cushing’s syndrome serious?

If left untreated, Cushing's syndrome can lead to serious complications and may be life-threatening.

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 18 May 2018
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 410 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Hypothyroidism

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