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Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome is a condition that occurs when your body is
exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol for a prolonged period of time. Sometimes called hypercortisolism, Cushing's
syndrome can occur when your adrenal glands, located above your kidneys, make too much cortisol. It may also develop if you're
taking high doses of cortisol-like medications (corticosteroids) for a prolonged period. These corticosteroids are commonly
used to treat a variety of acute and chronic illnesses.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Weight gain, particularly around your midsection and upper back
- Severe fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Rounding of your face (moon face)
- Facial flushing
- Fatty pad or hump between your shoulders (buffalo hump)
- Thinning of your arms and legs
- Pink or purple stretch marks on the skin of your abdomen, thighs,
breasts and arms
- Thin and fragile skin that bruises easily
- Slow healing of cuts, insect bites and infections
- Depression, anxiety and irritability
- Thicker or more visible body hair (hirsutism)
- Acne
- Irregular or stopped menstrual periods in females
- Erectile dysfunction in males
- High blood pressure
Links of Interest:
Recommended Reading:
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