Since the adrenal glands have such a profound role in the body, there are many problems that can arise that can cause serious disorder. One of the most common and well-known disorders is Cushing’s Syndrome. This is when the adrenal glands are releasing too much cortisol and the body responds negatively because of being too exposed to the hormone.
Those who have this are given a number of reasons as to why this could be occurring. There is no one answer, as every body is different and researchers are still not certain what makes this occur. For example, the body may just be producing more than a person needs simply because there is a problem with the adrenal glands themselves, or a problem in the brain that is causing mixed signals and more cortisol being released. In addition, having tumors on the adrenal glands can also cause the problem. As well as, the disorder simply being genetic.
Those who do have Cushing’s syndrome display a wide array of symptoms. For starters, they may have excessive weight around the face and neck, while their arms and legs remain skinny. They also demonstrate low blood sugar, skin problems such as acne or redish blue marks on the skin, high blood pressure and they are often depressed or have extreme moodiness.
For those that do suffer from Cushing’s syndrome the doctor will first try to pinpoint just why the adrenal glands are producing too much cortisol. Once the reason has been isolated, then the treatments go from there. For example, a medication may be prescribed or for those that have a tumor, surgery is recommended.
Those who suffer from these symptoms may go undiagnosed for years, and in fact many people may have the disorder and be diagnosed with something else, such as just simply having high blood pressure, but not Cushing’s syndrome. Though, those people who do get the wrong diagnosis usually find that they can change their lifestyle, but nothing helps.