Glucocorticoids may be taken by mouth, given as a shot, rubbed into the skin or breathed into the lungs by an inhaler. They also may be used to stop the body from rejecting a new organ after a transplant. Pain or injury in the back or joints and many skin rashes may be treated with glucocorticoids. These are often used to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and asthma. The role of glucocorticoid medicines (exogenous Cushing syndrome)Ĭushing syndrome can happen from taking glucocorticoid medicines. Helping the heart and blood vessels work correctly.

It helps the body respond to stress and plays many other important roles, including: Cortisol is a hormone that is made in the adrenal glands. The pituitary gland knows if the body has the right amount of cortisol.Ĭushing syndrome is caused by having too much cortisol in the body. Signals from the pituitary gland tell the adrenal glands to make cortisol. The adrenal gland endocrine system includes the adrenal glands and pituitary gland. Bone loss, which can lead to broken bones.Ĭall your health care provider if you have symptoms of Cushing syndrome, especially if you're taking glucocorticoid medicine to treat a health issue such as asthma, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.Other possible symptoms of Cushing syndrome Symptoms men with Cushing syndrome may experience Periods that are irregular or that stop.Thick, dark hair on the face and body.Symptoms women with Cushing syndrome may experience Pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts and underarms.This may be referred to as a buffalo hump. Weight gain in the trunk, with thin arms and legs.Symptoms of Cushing syndrome can vary depending on the level of extra cortisol.

What hormone does adrenal gland produce