Hypercortisolemia
Hypercortisolemia is a medical condition characterized by an excess of cortisol in the blood. This condition can be caused by various factors, including Cushing's syndrome, adrenal tumors, and certain medications.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Hypercortisolemia can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is Cushing's syndrome, a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. This can be due to a tumor in the adrenal glands or in the pituitary gland, which controls the production of cortisol.
Other causes of hypercortisolemia include:
- Adrenal tumors: These can cause the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase cortisol levels in the blood.
- Stress: Chronic stress can lead to increased cortisol production.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of hypercortisolemia can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Weight gain: This is often centered around the abdomen, with thinner arms and legs.
- Skin changes: These can include thinning skin, easy bruising, and purple stretch marks.
- Muscle weakness
- High blood pressure
- Mood changes: These can include depression, anxiety, and irritability.
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of hypercortisolemia typically involves a series of tests to measure cortisol levels in the blood, urine, and saliva. These may include:
If these tests indicate high cortisol levels, further tests may be done to determine the cause of the hypercortisolemia.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for hypercortisolemia depends on the cause of the condition. This may involve:
- Surgery to remove a tumor causing the excess cortisol production
- Medications to reduce cortisol production or block its effects
- Lifestyle changes, such as stress management techniques
See also[edit | edit source]
Hypercortisolemia Resources | ||
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