Cushing's syndrome: when your body produces more cortisol than is good for you

Tiredness, weight gain, cycle disorders - and the feeling that something in your body is no longer running smoothly. If you are familiar with such symptoms, you may have heard of Cushing's syndrome. This is a hormonal disorder in which the body permanently produces too much cortisol. Cortisol is vital, but in excess it throws many processes out of balance. In this article, you will find out what is behind Cushing's syndrome, which symptoms are typical and how it affects your period, hormone balance and general well-being.

Cushing's syndrome (named after the American neurosurgeon Harvey Cushing) is a condition in which cortisol levels are permanently too high.

Cortisol is a hormone produced naturally in the body and is one of the so-called glucocorticoids. It is produced in the adrenal cortex and has many important functions in the body: it helps to deal with stress, regulates blood sugar, has an anti-inflammatory effect, influences fat, protein and bone metabolism and stabilizes the circulation. In the event of acute stress - e.g. illness or stress - an elevated cortisol level is even essential for survival.

However, if too much cortisol is released over a longer period of time, various symptoms can occur - both physical and psychological.

Cushing's syndrome can have two main causes:

• Endogenous Cushing's syndrome: The body produces too much cortisol itself, e.g. due to a tumor on the adrenal gland or the pituitary gland (hypophysis). The latter is also known as Cushing's disease.

• Exogenous Cushing's syndrome: Prolonged use of cortisone preparations, for example in the case of chronic illnesses such as rheumatism or asthma, can also lead to an oversupply of cortisol.

Prolonged physical or psychological stress can also affect cortisol levels - although this does not usually lead to genuine Cushing's syndrome.

The symptoms often develop gradually and are therefore not recognized immediately. Typical symptoms are

• Weight gain, especially on the stomach and neck ("bull neck")

• Moon face: rounded, puffy face

• Thin skin, tendency to bruises and stretch marks

• Muscle weakness, especially in the legs

• Osteoporosis

• Cycle disorders or absence of periods

• Increased body hair (hirsutism), acne

• Mood swings, irritability, depression

• High blood pressure, increased blood sugar or even diabetes

Depending on the cause and duration of the overproduction, the symptoms can vary in severity.

If you suspect that you are suffering from Cushing's syndrome, you should definitely have it checked out by a doctor. Various diagnostic procedures are then used to determine whether your symptoms are Cushing's syndrome.

Typical diagnostic steps are

• Urine test over 24 hours: The so-called free cortisol in the urine is measured. To do this, you collect every time you go to the toilet over a period of 24 hours in a special container that you receive from the doctor's office. This means that every time you urinate during this time, you put your urine in the collection container. The entire urine is then analyzed in the laboratory for the cortisol content. This allows a particularly reliable assessment of the hormone level, as fluctuations throughout the day are compensated for.

• Saliva test in the late evening: Normally the cortisol level drops sharply in the evening. If it is nevertheless elevated at this time of day, this can be a warning sign of impaired cortisol regulation. The saliva test is easy to carry out at home and is non-invasive.

• Blood test: In addition to the cortisol level, the so-called ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is often also measured. This helps to identify whether the cause lies in the pituitary gland or the adrenal glands.

• Dexamethasone inhibition test: You will be given a low-dose cortisone preparation (dexamethasone) - this normally reduces the body's own cortisol production. If the level still remains high, this indicates Cushing's syndrome.

• Imaging procedures (MRI or CT): If laboratory values are abnormal, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computer tomography (CT) is used to look for possible changes in the pituitary gland (hypophysis) or adrenal glands.

The diagnosis is complex and usually requires several tests to reach a reliable conclusion.

The first port of call is often your family doctor. If Cushing's syndrome is suspected, a referral is usually made to an endocrinologist, i.e. a specialist in hormonal and metabolic diseases.

A permanently high cortisol level can affect the function of the ovaries and lead to hormonal fluctuations. Many menstruating people with Cushing's syndrome report

• irregular or absent periods

• more severe PMS symptoms

• reduced fertility

In some cases, the bleeding pattern also changes, e.g. spotting or bleeding between periods. It is therefore important to take changes in your cycle seriously and have them checked out by a doctor. Would you like to find out more about the causes and natural treatment options for intermenstrual bleeding? Then we have the right blog post for you here.

The effects of Cushing's syndrome go far beyond the hormone balance and are often clearly visible on the skin and in general body sensation. Many sufferers report

• heavy sweating, even during minor physical exertion or at rest - often uncomfortable and associated with a strong feeling of warmth

• sensitive or oily skin that quickly becomes irritated, itchy or prone to blemishes

• Acne, especially on the face, back and chest - hormonal and sometimes very inflammatory

• Stretch marks (striae), especially on the stomach, thighs, hips and breasts - these occur because the connective tissue becomes thinner due to the increased cortisol levels and tears more quickly

In addition, there is often an increased body awareness or even discomfort with one's own appearance. Many sufferers feel insecure due to the visible changes, especially if hirsutism or severe weight gain also occur.

Treatment depends on the cause:

• Endogenous Cushing's (e.g. tumor) is often treated surgically.

• In the case of exogenous Cushing's (caused by medication), attempts are made to reduce the cortisone dose or carefully balance it out.

It may also be useful to have symptoms such as high blood pressure, diabetes or bone weakness treated. Psychological support can also be helpful, as the syndrome is often emotionally stressful.

Even if the diagnosis can be stressful: You are not alone. Many people live with the condition and find ways to manage their everyday life mindfully.

• Keep a symptom diary: make a daily note of how you feel, what symptoms occur and what is good for you. This will help you to recognize patterns, identify triggers and discuss changes with your doctor.

• Plan conscious breaks: Exhaustion is one of the most common symptoms of Cushing's syndrome. Allow yourself regular rest periods, even if you are supposed to be "working". Your body urgently needs this rest.

• Make sure you eat a balanced, low-inflammatory diet: It should always be emphasized how strongly our diet influences our hormonal balance and metabolic processes. With Cushing's syndrome, we recommend a diet that places as little strain as possible on the body - in other words, animal fat, sugar and processed products should be deliberately removed from the diet.

Especially recommended:

• Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale or rocket - they have an anti-inflammatory effect and provide important micronutrients.

• Pulses (e.g. lentils, beans, chickpeas), which are filling for a long time, keep blood sugar stable and promote intestinal flora.

• Berries and other colorful fruits, as they are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals.

• Nuts and seeds, especially walnuts and linseed - they provide healthy fats and promote hormone regulation.

• Whole grains, which stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent cravings.

Such a diet can not only help to counteract concomitant diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure, but often also has a positive effect on mood, digestion and skin appearance. Are you looking for healthy and sustainable cooking ideas? Then take a look at these delicious recipes. Would you have thought that your diet could even have an impact on your period symptoms? The saying "You are what you eat." is also true here. Find out here how targeted nutrients can help alleviate your menstrual cramps - without any painkillers.

• Incorporate targeted relaxation into your daily routine: Whether it's breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation or simply going for a walk - relaxation techniques help to naturally regulate your cortisol levels. Yoga or mindful journaling can also strengthen you mentally. You can find a comprehensive overview of the various relaxation exercises here

• Exercise regularly - but mindfully: Sport can have a supportive effect on Cushing's syndrome, especially with regard to osteoporosis, muscle weakness and general well-being. Joint-friendly activities such as walking, swimming, cycling or strength training are particularly recommended - the latter has been shown to help promote bone formation. However, make sure you adapt your exercise to your energy level and start with small units. Are you already aware that it makes sense to adapt your exercise program to the phases of your menstrual cycle? You can find out what this means and exactly how to do it here.

• Talk about your experiences: Sharing yourexperiences with others - e.g. in self-help groups or online - can provide relief and show you that you are not alone. Talking to close friends or family can also help you to cope better with emotional stress.

• Choose skin-friendly clothing: Many sufferers react sensitively to synthetic materials or tight cuts. Organic cotton or bamboo viscose clothing can help with hot flushes, chafing or sensitive skin. Our taynies are also made of organic cotton and/or bamboo viscose, so that you have a pleasant skin feeling in your intimate area during your period. In comparison, conventional pads are often not breathable, contain fragrances and bleaching agents and therefore irritate the skin unnecessarily. You can find more tips on how to care for your intimate area here.

All of these tips can help to improve your body image and quality of life - even if not everything changes immediately. Small, mindful steps often make the biggest difference.

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between Cushing's syndrome and PCOS? Both diseases can manifest themselves in similar ways: Weight gain, hirsutism, cycle disorders. Nevertheless, there are clear differences:

Only a specific hormone status and imaging procedures can provide clarity. That's why a professional diagnosis is important. PCOS doesn't mean anything to you? Take a look here. We will provide you with comprehensive information about the condition and its effects on fertility.

In many cases: yes. If the cause (e.g. a benign tumour) is identified and successfully treated, cortisol production often returns to normal. Even with exogenous Cushing's, a controlled reduction in cortisone intake can lead to a complete recovery. Nevertheless, recovery can take several months or even years.

If left untreated, yes. A permanently high cortisol level can severely affect the cardiovascular system, blood sugar, bone density and the immune system. Early diagnosis and treatment is therefore crucial.

During pregnancy, cortisol levels are physiologically elevated. In rare cases, however, this can also mask or exacerbate an existing, previously undetected Cushing's syndrome. If unusual symptoms such as severe muscle loss, persistent menstrual irregularities or severe weight gain occur after delivery, this should be clarified by a doctor.

Both diseases affect the hormone balance, but are fundamentally different. Hashimoto's is an autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland and usually leads to hypothyroidism. Cushing's syndrome affects the adrenal glands and leads to hyperthyroidism. Symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain and mood swings can be similar - which is why a clear diagnosis by a specialist is important. Do you already know the effects of thyroid problems on the menstrual cycle? Take a look here.

There is no clear scientific evidence of a direct link. However, both diseases can lead to similar symptoms such as fat distribution disorders, pressure sensitivity or weight gain. Some studies suspect hormonal influences in the development of lipoedema - whether cortisol plays a role in this has not yet been conclusively clarified.

Cushing's syndrome is a complex hormonal condition that can affect many areas of your life - from your menstrual cycle to your body image. We at Taynie therefore recommend taking symptoms seriously, getting good medical advice and at the same time treating your body with love. A wholesome plant-based diet, relaxation exercises and exercise can provide you with holistic support.

Author: Taynie.de