Board‑certified endocrine care at Hilltop Internal Medicine and Endocrinology
Are you noticing sudden changes in your body? Unexplained weight gain around the midsection and upper back, a rounder “moon” face, easy bruising, rising blood sugar, mood changes, and poor sleep could be signs of Cushing disease. If you’re in Oxon Hill or nearby areas, it’s important to seek expert care close to home.
What is Cushing disease?
Cushing’s disease is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol in the body. It’s specifically a type of Cushing’s syndrome where the excess cortisol is caused by a pituitary tumor producing too much adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This excess ACTH then stimulates the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol.
Common signs & symptoms of Cushing Disease
Cushing’s Disease often causes physical and emotional changes. Here are some most common signs and symptoms to watch for:
- Rapid weight gain: Extra fat builds up mainly in the belly, face, and upper back, giving a rounded “moon face” and “buffalo hump.”
- Thin, fragile skin: The skin breaks down easily, causing frequent bruises and slow healing after minor cuts.
- Purple stretch marks: Wide, reddish-purple streaks appear on the abdomen, thighs, breasts, or arms.
- Muscle weakness: The arms and legs feel weak, making it harder to climb stairs, lift objects, or exercise.
- High blood pressure and sugar: Cortisol imbalance raises the risk of hypertension, diabetes, blood pressure, and frequent infections.
- Mood and hormone changes: People may experience irritability, depression, anxiety, and women often notice irregular or missed periods.
When to see an endocrinologist
If you live in Oxon Hill, Fort Washington, Silver Spring, Bowie, Bethesda, or the greater Prince George’s County area, it’s important to see an endocrinologist if you notice several symptoms of Cushing disease. This is especially true if high blood pressure or blood sugar remains difficult to control, or if you’ve experienced sudden weight loss. Getting an early, accurate diagnosis close to home can help prevent serious complications and lead to better long-term outcomes.
How Can Dr. Kahinde Folawewo Help?
When facing the uncertainty of Cushing disease, having a trusted endocrinologist by your side makes all the difference. At Hilltop Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Dr. Kehinde Folawewo, MD, a double-board-certified endocrinologist in Oxon Hill, MD, helps patients with Cushing disease through four essential steps:
Accurate diagnosis:- Guideline-based hormone tests such as late-night salivary cortisol, 24-hour urine collection, and dexamethasone suppression studies are used to confirm excess cortisol.
Cause localization:- After confirming high cortisol, further evaluation with ACTH testing, pituitary MRI, and sometimes inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) helps identify the exact source.
Coordinated treatment:- Treatment plans may include prescription of medications, referral to experienced pituitary surgeons, and management of related issues like high blood pressure, blood sugar, and bone health.
Comprehensive symptom management:- An overall focus on improving complications such as fatigue, mood changes, weight gain, and sleep disturbances, aiming to restore overall health and quality of life.
Long-Term follow-up You Can Count On
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment is complete. Because Cushing’s disease can sometimes return, regular check-ins are an important part of staying well. Follow-up visits and lab tests help catch changes early, and we also keep a close eye on how your adrenal glands are adjusting. If anything shifts, your care plan is updated so that the progress you’ve made—in weight, strength, mood, blood pressure, and glucose—continues for the long run.
Cusion Disease Experts in Oxon Hill
If you’re worried about symptoms of Cushing disease, getting answers from a specialist is the first step towards recovery. At Hilltop Internal Medicine and Endocrinology in Oxon Hill, we provide thorough testing, clear explanations, and personalized treatment plans for every patient. Don’t let cortisol imbalance control your health. Call (301) 567-9570 today to connect with local experts who can guide you through diagnosis and care.
Frequently Asked Question
Is Cushing disease curable?
Many people feel better after a pituitary surgery; some need additional therapy or medication. Ongoing follow‑up is essential.
How fast will I feel better?
Blood pressure, glucose, and mood often improve within weeks to months; strength, skin, and weight changes usually take longer as cortisol normalizes.
What if my tests are borderline or symptoms come and go?
We repeat key tests, time them with your symptoms, and use specialized testing—including IPSS when appropriate to reach a definitive diagnosis.
Can inhalers, creams, or injections cause Cushing syndrome?
Yes. Long‑term or high‑dose glucocorticoids by mouth, injection, topical, or inhaled—can cause Cushing syndrome. Never stop on your own; we’ll guide a safe taper if needed.