Cushing syndrome symptoms and causes

Cushing's disease might not be a term heard every day, but for those living with its effects, it can quietly turn life upside down. Imagine gaining weight rapidly without a clear reason, feeling tired all the time, or watching your mood swing from high to low without warning. These aren’t just signs of a rough week. They could point to a deeper issue hiding in plain sight.

This hormonal condition often creeps in slowly, making it easy to mistake its symptoms for everyday stress or aging. But left unchecked, it can take a serious toll on the body and mind. 

What Is Cushing Syndrome?

Cushing syndrome happens when the body has too much cortisol over a long period of time. Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone” because the body releases it during times of pressure or danger. But it also helps control blood sugar, fight infections, and regulate metabolism.

There are two main types of Cushing syndrome:

  • Endogenous: when the body produces too much cortisol naturally.
  • Exogenous: when cortisol levels rise due to outside sources, like taking corticosteroid medications for a long time.

Though the names sound similar, Cushing's disease is just one cause of Cushing syndrome. All Cushing's disease is Cushing syndrome, but not all Cushing syndrome is Cushing's disease.

Causes of Cushing Syndrome

Cushing's Syndrome from adrenal gland

There are a few key reasons why someone may develop Cushing syndrome, depending on whether the cause is internal or external.

Endogenous Causes (From Inside the Body)

  • Pituitary Tumors: This is the main cause of Cushing's disease. A benign (non-cancerous) growth in the pituitary gland makes too much ACTH, a hormone that tells the adrenal glands to release cortisol.
  • Adrenal Tumors: Sometimes a tumor forms directly in the adrenal glands. These tumors may be benign or malignant and can lead to an overproduction of cortisol.
  • Ectopic ACTH Syndrome: In rare cases, ACTH is produced by tumors in other parts of the body, like the lungs or pancreas. These tumors act like the pituitary gland and lead to high cortisol levels.

Exogenous Causes (From Outside the Body)

  • Steroid Medications: People with chronic conditions like asthma, arthritis, or lupus may take corticosteroids like prednisone. Taking these drugs in high doses for a long time can lead to Cushing syndrome. Even creams or injections can sometimes have this effect if used excessively.

Risk Factors

Anyone can develop Cushing syndrome, but some factors make it more likely. Women between the ages of 25 and 40 are diagnosed more often. People who take corticosteroid medications regularly also face a higher risk.

Having a family history of hormone-related tumors or genetic conditions may also raise the chances of developing Cushing's disease or other hormone imbalances.

Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease

The symptoms of Cushing syndrome can vary widely depending on how much extra cortisol the body is making. Some symptoms are easy to spot, while others may be mistaken for signs of stress, aging, or other conditions. But over time, the clues start to add up.

Common Symptoms of Cushing Syndrome

One of the most noticeable signs of Cushing's disease is unusual weight gain. This isn’t the kind that comes from overeating or skipping workouts. The weight tends to gather around the upper body (especially the belly) while the arms and legs may stay thin. Other classic symptoms include:

  1. Weight gain in the face, giving it a round, full appearance often called a moon face
  2. Fatty lump between the shoulders, sometimes called a buffalo hump 
  3. Purple or pink stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts, or underarms 
  4. Thin and fragile skin that bruises easily 
  5. Cuts and wounds that heal slowly 
  6. Increased acne, especially on the face, chest, or back

These physical changes often happen gradually, which is why Cushing syndrome can go unnoticed for months or even years.

Symptoms in Women with Cushing Syndrome

Women with Cushing syndrome may also notice changes in their hair, hormones, and menstrual cycle, such as:

  • Thick, dark hair on the face and body: a condition known as hirsutism
  • Irregular periods, or periods that stop completely

Symptoms in Men with Cushing Syndrome

Men with Cushing syndrome may experience:

  • A lower sex drive
  • Fertility issues
  • Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection

Other Possible Symptoms of Cushing Syndrome

In addition to physical changes, Cushing syndrome can affect how a person feels emotionally and mentally. Cortisol influences the brain, so it’s no surprise that people with high levels often struggle with:

  • Extreme fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep
  • Muscle weakness, especially in the arms and legs
  • Mood swings, anxiety, and depression
  • Emotional outbursts or trouble controlling feelings
  • Problems with memory and focus
  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep

There are also some symptoms that affect the body’s overall health:

  • High blood pressure
  • Frequent headaches
  • More infections than usual, due to a weakened immune system
  • Darkening of the skin, especially in areas like the neck or knuckles
  • Bone loss, which can lead to fractures
  • In children, stunted growth or delayed development

Complications of Untreated Cushing Syndrome

Ignoring Cushing syndrome can lead to serious health issues. Cortisol affects many parts of the body, and too much of it for too long can create long-term damage.

Possible Complications:

  • Diabetes: High cortisol levels can raise blood sugar and lead to type 2 diabetes.
  • Osteoporosis: Bones become weak and break easily.
  • High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease: These are more common in people with Cushing syndrome.
  • Infections: The immune system may be weakened.
  • Mental Health Problems: Anxiety, depression, and memory issues can become worse.

Supplements That May Help Support Adrenal Health

While Cushing syndrome itself can’t be prevented with supplements alone, some nutrients may help support adrenal function, hormone balance, and overall wellness.

  • Vitamin D and Calcium
    Because bone loss is a major concern in Cushing’s disease, supplements like vitamin D and calcium may help protect bone health and reduce the risk of fractures.
  • Vitamin C
    Supporting the body with this vitamin may help maintain healthy cortisol levels. Some studies show it may also help reduce the effects of oxidative stress.
  • B Vitamins (Especially B5 and B6)
    The B-vitamin family supports energy production and stress response. Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) helps with adrenal hormone production, while B6 may support mood and nervous system function.
  • Magnesium
    Magnesium helps regulate the stress response and supports muscle and nerve function. It may help reduce feelings of anxiety, muscle weakness, and sleep problems.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    Omega-3s, found in fish oil and flaxseeds, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect against heart disease, which is a risk for people with Cushing syndrome.

Important Note:

Supplements can be helpful, but they’re not a cure for Cushing syndrome. Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if already undergoing treatment or taking medications.

The Bottom Line

Cushing syndrome is more than just stress or weight gain. It’s a serious hormone imbalance that can affect many parts of life. Learning to spot the symptoms early and understanding what causes the condition is key to getting the right help.

Whether the issue comes from a medication or a tumor causing Cushing's disease, treatments are available that can offer real relief. With the right care, recovery is possible, and many people go on to live full, healthy lives.