Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of Cushing syndrome can vary depending on the levels of excess cortisol.

Common signs and symptoms of Cushing syndrome

• Weight gain and fatty tissue deposits, particularly around the midsection and upper back, in the face (moon face), and between the shoulders (buffalo hump)
• Pink or purple stretch marks (striae) on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, breasts and arms
• Thinning, fragile skin that bruises easily
• Slow healing of cuts, insect bites and infections
• Acne

Signs and symptoms women with Cushing syndrome may experience

• Thicker or more visible body and facial hair (hirsutism)
• Irregular or absent menstrual periods

Signs and symptoms men with Cushing syndrome may experience

• Decreased sex drive
• Decreased fertility
• Erectile dysfunction

Other possible signs and symptoms of Cushing syndrome

• Severe fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Depression, anxiety and irritability
• Loss of emotional control
• Cognitive difficulties
• New or worsened high blood pressure
• Headache
• Infections
• Skin darkening
• Bone loss, leading to fractures over time
• In children, impaired growth

When to see a doctor

Contact your doctor if you have symptoms that suggest Cushing syndrome, especially if you're taking corticosteroid medication to treat a condition such as asthma, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.