Cushing's syndrome results from the body's exposure to high levels of a hormone called cortisol over a long period. Cortisol is a hormone secreted in the body and is responsible for the breakdown of glucose, the regulation of blood pressure, insulin release, and reducing inflammation. According to MedlinePlus, the excessive use of corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone and prednisolone, which are used to treat asthma and rheumatoid arthritis, is one of the major causes of Cushing's syndrome.
Cushings Disease
Cushing's disease is caused by a tumor of the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. This is different from Cushing's syndrome, which is caused by cortisol intake through medications. According to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, the symptoms of both Cushing's syndrome and disease are the same and include skin changes, muscle and bone changes, and obesity and other symptoms.
Skin Changes
According to MedlinePlus, skin changes define an early symptom of Cushing's. MedlinePlus says that patients with this condition may get acne on their face or develop other skin infections. They also develop purple colored lines on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, breasts, and arms. The skin also tends to become thin and fragile and such patients easily get bruises. According to MayoClinic.com, healing from cuts, insect bites, and infections, occurs slowly in Cushing's. Women with Cushing's may also develop thick hair growth on the face, chest, neck, abdomen and thighs.
Muscle and Bone Changes
According to MedlinePlus, muscle and bone changes are among the early symptoms of Cushing's. Patients suffer from backaches while performing their usual daily activities. They also report feeling pain or tenderness in the bone. The bones also tend to become thin making the individual more prone to fractures, especially of the ribs and spine. Muscle weakness may also occur as a result of this condition.
Obesity and Other Symptoms
According to MedlinePlus, patients also develop symptoms such as weight gain, due to Cushing's. Weight gain usually occurs around the midsection and the upper back. Patients also develop a moon face, which refers to the rounding of the face. According to MayoClinic.com, individuals develop a fatty hump between their shoulders, which is called a buffalo hump. MayoClinic.com also says that fatigue, depression and irritability, loss of emotional control, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction in males and menstrual irregularities are also early symptoms of Cushing's.
