Cushing's Syndrome Symptoms

Common symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include extreme weight gain (especially around the midsection and upper back), excess hair growth, high blood pressure, and skin problems. In addition, children and teenagers with Cushing's syndrome may experience symptoms such as growth retardation, missed periods in girls, and very early or very late puberty. Symptoms seen in adults may also include such things as osteoporosis, diabetes, and depression.

Cushing's Syndrome Information

An Introduction to the Signs and Symptoms of Cushing's Syndrome

An excess of cortisol in the body for long periods of time is what causes Cushing's syndrome symptoms. Symptoms of this condition tend to vary based on the person's age.

Symptoms in Children and Teenagers

Children and teenagers with Cushing's syndrome may have the following symptoms:

Extreme weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back
Growth retardation
Missed periods in teenage girls
Excess hair growth
Acne
Reddish-blue streaks on the skin
High blood pressure
Tiredness and weakness
Either very early or very late puberty.

Cushing's Syndrome Symptoms in Adults

Adults with Cushing's syndrome may have symptoms that include:

Extreme weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back
Excess hair growth
High blood pressure
Skin problems.

In addition, Cushing's syndrome symptoms in adults can include:

Muscle weakness
Osteoporosis
Moodiness, irritability, or depression
Sleep disturbances
Diabetes
Menstrual disorders in women
Purplish-pink stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and breasts
Decreased fertility in men
Diminished or absent desire for sex.

(Cushing's Syndrome Symptoms Continued: Page 2)