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Symptoms of Cushings Disease

Cushing's disease is a metabolic disorder that affects the adrenal glands. The most common cause is a tumor on the pituitary gland, which controls the adrenals. When a tumor is present, the pituitary over-stimulates the adrenals, causing them to over-produce the hormone cortisol.
Symptoms of Cushing's disease vary and can mimic other diseases. But there are some symptoms that are very common to Cushing's.

  1. Fat Deposits

    • The most common symptom is the collection of fat deposits in the torso, upper back, neck and face. This often results in a rounded, or moon-shaped, face and the appearance of a "buffalo hump" on the upper back.

    Skin and Hair Symptoms

    • Women tend to experience excessive hair growth, especially on the face, neck and abdomen. In both genders the skin becomes fragile, bruises easily and tends to take a long time to heal.

    Reproductive Symptoms

    • Women may experience irregular menstrual cycles. Men may experience erectile dysfunction and reduced fertility.

    Bone and Muscle Symptoms

    • Calcium is stored in the bones and also used for muscle contraction. Cushing's disease robs the bones of calcium and prevents proper muscle contraction.

    Other Symptoms

    • Other symptoms include irritability, anxiety, depression, fatigue, high blood sugar and high blood pressure.

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