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Monica D., Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery

About 5 years ago, I was ending an abusive relationship. I had also stopped getting my period, was gaining weight and was depressed, but I attributed it to stress from that relationship. I decided to start exercising daily and changed my diet and my life habits. I was happy, but despite working out 5 days a weeks and dieting, I was actually gaining weight – not muscle, but fat! My acne was out of control and I started losing my hair. I became more depressed, full of anxiety and very introverted, which is not like me at all. I didn’t have insurance at the time, so for 3.5 years I struggled with people telling me how to eat better and exercise and that I was obese, like this was a life choice. I was progressively feeling more muscle pain and weakness. Walking/physical activity was painful.

Finally, I got insurance and went to the doctor, he put me on metformin for the weight (I didn’t have diabetes), lisinopril for high blood pressure, and an antibiotic for acne. He told me to see my gynecologist for the amenorrhea. My gynecologist diagnosed me with polycystic ovarian syndrome but because Cushing’s has a few overlapping symptoms, they ordered lab tests. When my blood work came back with an extremely high level of cortisol, they referred me to an endocrinologist who specialized in Cushing’s. She ordered more blood work and urine tests, and an MRI. Sure enough there was a tumor! I’d never been happier to hear that I had a tumor. Soon after I had surgery in October of 2015.

Monica D.In the first 6 months, I had significant weight loss, from 236 to 180. I was so happy. My face is no longer a moon face, my acne is almost all gone, I exercise regularly and feel great with minimal pain. I’m no longer depressed or anxious even half as much as I was. My period is back and regular, and I hope that means regular fertility in the future. I am still struggling with weight and gained back about 15 pounds since I was at 180. I’d like to join a coinciding group or be able to talk to other people.

Member: 173491

State: New York

Newsletter: Summer, 2017

Selene G., Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery

I would like to preface my story by saying that for the first time in my life, at age 16, I am feeling happy and well. I wanted to share my story of Cushing’s Disease in hopes that it will be of help to others who experience the severe mental health aspects of Cushing’s.Continue Reading

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