Question: Are those who have had Cushing’s more likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer’s? Answer: This is currently unknown. We know that patients in long-term biochemical remission of Cushing’s syndrome show subtle cognitive difficulties (for example in the memory domain). In addition, we know that cortisol can impact brain areas that are heavily involved in… Continue Reading
Category Archives: Doctor’s Answers
Small Tasks Stressful While on Replacement
Question: I am on permanent replacement hydrocortisone. I find I easily become overwhelmed and indecisive when I try to do something “normal” like plan a small trip or have a small dinner party. Is this normal for someone on replacement? Any tips on how I can manage this? Answer: When you are attempting these tasks,… Continue Reading
Glucagon Test
Question: I had low estrogen (age 33) and was referred to an endocrinologist. I asked to be tested for Cushing’s. I was scheduled for an insulin tolerance test, but ended up having a glucagon test. I was told that all of my hormones, including cortisol, were normal. Are these tests ever used to diagnose Cushing’s? … Continue Reading
Bipolar Disorder and Psychosis Symptoms
Question: How many patients with active Cushing’s have bipolar disorder? Also, are psychotic symptoms very common? Answer: This is great question. I will start by including short definitions of bipolar illness and psychosis. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes… Continue Reading
Adrenal Tumors Not Usually Cancer
Question: Are most adrenal tumors causing Cushing’s adrenal cancer? Answer: The vast majority of adrenal tumors causing Cushing’s are benign. By Dr. Constantine Stratakis, NICHD, NIH, Bethesda, MD, Winter, 2016
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