Cortisol - Cushing's syndrome and the endocrine system (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis) dysfunction.
Weight Gain and Resistant Hypertension: Causes and Connections to Cortisol Levels Causes of Weight Gain and Resistant Hypertension Cushing's Syndrome : This clinical syndrome results from prolonged exposure to excessive cortisol. It can be caused by long-term use of corticosteroid medications, tumors in the adrenal glands or pituitary gland, or rarely, ectopic ACTH production. Symptoms include weight gain, resistant hypertension, muscle weakness, thin skin with easy bruising and stretch marks, osteoporosis, mood changes, irregular menses, increased thirst and urination, and elevated blood sugar levels. Cushing's Disease : A specific form of Cushing's syndrome where a pituitary adenoma, a noncancerous tumor on the pituitary gland, makes too much adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). In response, the adrenal glands produce excessive cortisol, disrupting hormone balance and leading to symptoms of Cushing's syndrome. (Reference: OHSU Brain Institute ) Cortisol Levels and T...