What it is
It can raise blood pressure and blood sugar, weaken bones and muscles, and increase the risk of infections.
If it is caused by steroid medicines, the dose may be reduced slowly; never stop steroids suddenly. Tumours are usually treated with surgery, and sometimes medicines or radiotherapy.
Common signs
- Weight gain, especially on the tummy, face and upper back
- A rounder, redder face
- Purple stretch marks
- Thin skin that bruises easily
- Muscle weakness, low mood and tiredness
How it is usually diagnosed
- Urine, saliva or blood tests for cortisol
- Dexamethasone suppression test
- MRI or CT scans to find a tumour
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Cortisol test results
- Scan reports
- Endocrinology letters
- Blood pressure, blood sugar and bone density results
- Your steroid dose history
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is causing the high cortisol?
- Can my steroid dose be reduced safely?
- Which other problems should we check for?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Severe tummy pain, vomiting, confusion or collapse when steroids are reduced or stopped: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.