If a healthy adult gains excess weight for no reason, Cushing’s syndrome may be suspected.
Posted on 30.12.2023 at 15:00 Views 106 Posted on 30.12.2023 at 15:00 Views 106
A typical symptom of Cushing’s syndrome is rapid weight gain. Furthermore, it has the characteristic of gaining weight only in the central part of the body, such as the face, shoulders and abdomen. [사진=게티이미지뱅크]As the new year approaches, more and more people decide to go on a diet. Especially in the cold winter, it is normal for people to gain weight as outdoor activities decrease. However, if you feel that you are gaining weight, especially on your face or upper body, you should be careful. In this case, it could be “Cushing’s syndrome” rather than obesity.
“Cushing’s syndrome”, which causes weight gain mainly in the central part of the body
Cushing’s syndrome is one of the diseases caused by problems with adrenal hormones. It is a symptom that appears when our body produces too much of the hormone cortisol for a long period of time and refers to a disease in which cortisol is produced in excess regardless of the organ causing it. Cortisol, known to us as the “stress hormone,” works to help our bodies respond well to stressful situations by maintaining blood pressure and blood sugar levels, reducing inflammatory responses, and converting the food we eat into energy. However, if too much is produced, it can cause various diseases and problems.
A typical symptom of Cushing’s syndrome is rapid weight gain. Furthermore, it has the characteristic of gaining weight only in the central part of the body, such as the face, shoulders and abdomen. Facial redness and easy bruising are also characteristic, abdominal fat may develop and hirsutism, acne and menstrual abnormalities appear in women. Additionally, there are clear symptoms that can identify abnormalities, such as increased blood pressure and blood sugar levels, osteoporosis, and, in more severe cases, symptoms of mental illness. Cushing’s syndrome mainly affects adults between the ages of 30 and 50, but it can also occur in children. In terms of gender, it has been reported that there are approximately three times more female patients than male patients.
Complications are dangerous… Proper treatment is key
Cushing’s syndrome not only causes a variety of symptoms, but also has a high risk of complications. Obesity can be accompanied by various diseases, especially increases the risk of diseases that are the leading causes of death in Korea, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, and can provide a clue to various complications such as diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.
If you have Cushing’s syndrome, you need to control the hormone cortisol, which causes Cushing’s syndrome. If Cushing’s syndrome is caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland or adrenal gland, hormones can be controlled through removal of the tumor, drugs that inhibit cortisol synthesis, or radiation therapy. If Cushing’s syndrome is caused by medications, recovery may be possible by stopping steroid use. However, if you suddenly stop taking the drug, this can lead to a decrease in adrenal function and, in severe cases, shock, so in this case it is essential to consult a specialist.
Journalist Jeong Hee-eun
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2023-12-30 06:00:39
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