Cushing's Syndrome Specialist

What is Cushing’s syndrome?

Cushing's syndrome is an adrenal problem that causes an overproduction of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone most often associated with your body's stress response. However, this hormone also controls blood pressure and the breakdown of food into energy.

Some people are born with a condition that triggers an overproduction of cortisol. However, the most common cause of Cushing’s syndrome is the long-term use of glucocorticoids (steroids), which are medications people take to decrease inflammation.

When left undiagnosed and untreated, Cushing's syndrome may increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke, developing blood clots, or getting infections.

The endocrinologists at Fort Wayne Endocrinology specialize in diagnosing and treating adrenal problems like Cushing’s syndrome.

What are the symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome?

Cushing’s syndrome symptoms vary and may depend on how high your cortisol levels are and how long they’ve been elevated. Common symptoms you may experience with Cushing’s syndrome include:

• Weight gain, especially in the face, neck, and back
• Thinning of the arms and legs
• Round face
• Bruising more easily
• Weakness
• Purple stretch marks on the abdomen, breasts, hips, or underarms

Cushing's syndrome in women may cause excessive hair growth on the face, neck, or chest. In men, it may cause infertility, low libido, or erectile dysfunction. 

Not everyone with Cushing's syndrome has symptoms. 

How is Cushing’s syndrome diagnosed?

When you visit Fort Wayne Endocrinology with concerns about a hormonal imbalance, you can expect a thorough clinical examination. Your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, and family history.

They do a physical examination and run lab tests to check your hormone levels, including specialized tests that focus on cortisol. Fort Wayne Endocrinology has an on-site laboratory for testing. 

There's no single test for diagnosing Cushing’s syndrome, and the endocrinologists at Fort Wayne Endocrinology use all of the information gathered during your examination to determine the right diagnosis.

How is Cushing’s syndrome treated?

Treatment for Cushing's syndrome depends on the cause. If medication is the cause of your higher-than-normal cortisol levels, then your endocrinologist at Fort Wayne Endocrinology may recommend decreasing or stopping your use of this medication.

If your Cushing's syndrome is the result of a condition you were born with, your provider may recommend surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or cortisol-reducing medication.

Find out more about Cushing's syndrome by calling Fort Wayne Endocrinology or scheduling an appointment online today.