Symptom 5: High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, medically termed hypertension, is often called the ‘silent killer’. While it’s a common health issue affecting many, its presence alongside other symptoms might point towards Cushing’s disease. The connection lies in the hormone at the heart of this condition – cortisol.
Cortisol plays an instrumental role in regulating cardiovascular functions. Elevated levels of this hormone lead to the narrowing of arteries. When these vital vessels narrow, the heart needs to pump harder to ensure blood reaches all body parts. This increased exertion results in high blood pressure.
Now, hypertension on its own is a concerning health issue, as it’s linked to a range of problems from heart diseases to strokes. However, when observed in conjunction with other symptoms of Cushing’s disease, it becomes a significant piece of the diagnostic puzzle.
The challenge with high blood pressure is its lack of overt symptoms. Often, individuals are unaware of their elevated blood pressure levels until it’s detected during routine check-ups. This makes regular monitoring essential, especially if there are other concurrent symptoms indicative of Cushing’s disease.(5)
