Question: Is there a set progression of symptoms for Cushing’s? Are there some that usually appear first and then others follow?

Answer: Symptoms of Cushing’s are quite variable. The most common symptom is weight gain or difficulty losing weight despite strict dieting and exercise. There is not a definite “set progression of symptoms” in patients with Cushing’s. Some develop high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, easy bruising, depression and mood disturbances, osteoporosis (loss of bone mass), facial hair growth and acne, and muscle weakness. In general, more symptoms and signs become evident with longer duration of excess cortisol production.

By Dr. Mary Lee Vance MD (Summer, 1999)