"What Happens When Your Body Overproduces Cortisol"

 

Cushing’s disease is a rare but serious hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This condition can lead to a variety of health problems if left untreated. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for Cushing’s disease.

What Causes Cushing’s Disease?

Cushing’s disease occurs when a benign tumor (adenoma) in the pituitary gland produces excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol. This is different from Cushing’s syndrome, which refers to high cortisol levels from other causes, such as long-term use of corticosteroid medications or adrenal tumors.

Common Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease

The signs of Cushing’s disease develop gradually and may include:

• Weight gain, particularly in the face (moon face), upper back (buffalo hump), and abdomen
• Thin, fragile skin that bruises easily
• Purple stretch marks (striae) on the abdomen, thighs, and arms
• Muscle weakness and fatigue
• High blood pressure and elevated blood sugar (possibly leading to diabetes)
• Mood changes, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability
• Irregular menstrual periods in women and reduced fertility
• Increased facial and body hair in women (hirsutism)

How Is Cushing’s Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Cushing’s disease can be challenging because symptoms overlap with other conditions. Doctors may use:

1. Blood and urine tests – To measure cortisol levels.
2. Dexamethasone suppression test – Determines if cortisol production is abnormally high.
3. MRI or CT scans – To locate pituitary or