Category Archives: Doctor’s Answers

COVID-19 During Diagnosis

Doctor's Answers | Mar 26, 2020 | COVID-19, Doctor's Answers

Question: I suspect I have hypercortisolism but now I’m concerned about delays, unavailability of tests or medicines, and exposure to the virus during lots of doctor appointments. What can I do to safely get a diagnosis? Would waiting out this period be harmful? Answer 1: For most places, I expect the cancellation of non-emergency testing,… Continue Reading

Will BLA Solve My Problem?

Doctor's Answers | May 1, 2019 | Adrenal Insufficiency, Adrenal Tumors and Surgery, Causes of Cushing's, Diagnosis, Doctor's Answers, Effects of Cushing's, Medication Induced Cushing's, Pituitary Tumors and Surgery, Recovery

Question: I have confirmed hypercortisolism (enough highs after several months of testing) but no clear target. I’m morbidly obese, have lost my period, have new hair growth on my face, and almost all of the other classic Cushing’s symptoms. If I have a bilateral adrenalectomy and just remove the source of cortisol production, will these… Continue Reading

Loose Skin and Plastic Surgery

Doctor's Answers | May 1, 2019 | Doctor's Answers, Effects of Cushing's, Recovery, Weight Loss, Diet & Exercise

Question: I have lost over 100 lbs since the worst of my Cushing’s. I have a lot of loose skin including some on my neck and a fat roll in the middle that affects how my clothes fit. I’ve heard that patients in my situation can sometimes qualify for plastic surgery for medical purposes. Have… Continue Reading

Navigating the “Grey Areas” Post-Treatment Re: Cortisol Replacement

Doctor's Answers | May 1, 2019 | Adrenal Insufficiency, Doctor's Answers, Effects of Cushing's, Recovery, Recurrent Pituitary Cushing's, Steroid Replacement, Steroid Withdrawal Symptoms

Question: I have had persistent Cushing’s since 2012. I’ve had a couple of surgeries, radiation, and about 18 months of medical therapy. I came off that when the radiation seemed to be working – I was losing weight, my hair was growing back, and I could sleep. I’m currently just shy of three years post… Continue Reading

“Missing” Symptoms of Hypercortisolism

Doctor's Answers | May 1, 2019 | Doctor's Answers, Effects of Cushing's

Question: How is it possible for someone to have extremely high cortisol levels and not be obese or get stretch marks? Answer 1: Cortisol needs to be high for a long time to cause physical signs of Cushing’s syndrome. Also, patients with similar cortisol values, for a similar length of time, often look different. We… Continue Reading