Cushing’s Syndrome and Its Symptoms

Cushing’s Syndrome Is The Name For A Characteristic Combination Of Symptoms Caused By Excessive Production Of Adrenal Hormones.

Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome

The symptoms appear gradually and become increasingly obvious over a period of weeks or months. Any of the following symptoms may develop:

• changes in the face, which may become red and rounded
• weight gain concentrated around the chest and abdomen
• excessive growth of facial or body hair (more noticeable in women)
• in women, irregular menstruation; eventually, menstruation may stop
• reddish-purple stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs and arms
• pads of fat between the shoulder blades at the base of the neck
• difficulty climbing stairs associated with muscle wasting and weakness of the legs; the arms may also be affected
• tendency to bruise easily, especially on the limbs
• acne
• lack of sexual drive; men may become impotent
• depression and mood swings.

What Is The Outlook?

If the disorder is left untreated, it may lead to complications such as high blood pressure (hypertension), thinning of the bones (osteoporosis), diabetes mellitus and chronic heart failure.