Experiences with
Cushing's syndromeWho gets it and why
Cushing's syndrome is uncommon. It mostly affects people who have been taking steroid medicine, especially steroid tablets, for a long time. Steroids contain a synthetic version of cortisol.
Very rarely, it can be caused by the body producing too much cortisol.
This is usually the result of:
- a growth (tumour) in the pituitary gland in the brain
- a tumour in 1 of the adrenal glands above the kidneys
The tumours are usually non-cancerous (benign). They're most common in young women.
Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome
Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome can start suddenly or gradually. They tend to get slowly worse if not treated.
One of the main signs is weight gain and more body fat, such as:
- increased fat on your chest and tummy, but slim arms and legs
- a build-up of fat on the back of your neck and shoulders, known as a "buffalo hump"
- a red, puffy, rounded face
Other symptoms include:
- skin that bruises easily
- large purple stretch marks
- weakness in your upper arms and thighs
- a reduced sex drive (low libido) and fertility problems
- depression and mood swings
Cushing's syndrome can also cause high blood pressure, which can be serious if not treated.
Treatment for Cushing's syndrome
Cushing's syndrome usually gets better with treatment, although it might take a long time to recover completely.
Treatment depends on what's causing it.
If it's caused by taking steroids:
- your steroid dose will be gradually reduced or stopped
If it's caused by a tumour, treatment may include:
- surgery to remove the tumour
- radiotherapy to destroy the tumour
- medicines to reduce the effect of cortisol on your body
Speak to your doctor about the benefits and risks of the different treatment options.
SymptomsMedical treatmentsCausesCommon symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include more body fat on your chest, tummy, neck or shoulders. Your face may also be red and puffy.
Treatment for Cushing's syndrome depends on the cause. It's usually treated by stopping or reducing any steroid medicine you're taking.
Cushing's syndrome is often caused by taking steroid medicine, especially steroid tablets, for a long time.
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