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Warning-sign checks

Cushing syndrome: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, coughing up blood, one-sided weakness, or sudden difficulty speaking.

    These may indicate a heart problem, blood clot, or stroke.

    After surgery or while reducing or replacing steroids, get emergency help for repeated vomiting, severe weakness, fainting, confusion, or collapse.

    These may be signs of adrenal crisis.

    Follow any emergency steroid plan you have been given.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    If you have Cushing syndrome, seek prompt medical advice for a new fever, signs of infection, rapidly worsening swelling, severe mood changes, or signs that blood pressure or blood sugar is poorly controlled.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you develop progressive features such as easy bruising, wide purple stretch marks, worsening muscle weakness, and weight gain around the trunk and face.

    Mention all steroid medicines, including injections, inhalers, sprays, and creams.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Cushing syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.