Amy Schumer Credits Internet Trolls for Aiding in Cushing Syndrome Diagnosis
Comedian and actress Amy Schumer has recently shared with the world how she was diagnosed with Cushing syndrome, a rare hormonal disorder. Schumer, who appeared on an episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, disclosed that she was diagnosed in February 2024. She attributes doctors’ ability to identify the problem to online trolls who pointed out her swollen face, a common symptom of the condition.
Cushing syndrome is a disorder caused by too much cortisol being produced in the body. Dr. Divya Yogi-Morren, who is the medical director of the pituitary center at Cleveland Clinic, believes that cortisol acts as a mediator in the responses to stress; it helps sustain energy and support a normal sleep-wake cycle.
“It’s crucial for waking us up, keeping energy steady throughout the day, and helping us sleep at night,” said Dr. Yogi-Morren.
Diagnosing Cushing syndrome is challenging in itself because the symptoms, which include fatigue, gaining weight, and the change in appearance, are often mistaken as other diseases such as PCOS or metabolic syndrome. Patients wait an average of two to three years for a definitive diagnosis, said Dr. Yogi-Morren.
Cushing syndrome is relatively rare, with a prevalence of about 70 in every million individuals per year. It is more common among women and individuals assigned female at birth, where the age range is usually between 25 to 50 years.
In Schumer’s case, the condition was linked to steroid injections she received following a breast reduction and Cesarean section after having her first child. Patients who take cortisol-based medications for conditions like asthma or arthritis are at increased risk of developing Cushing syndrome.
The physicians diagnose Cushing syndrome by performing tests for raised cortisol levels and checking for ACTH, which is a stress-related hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Once this diagnosis is confirmed, the following step is determining the cause.
The condition can result from prolonged use of steroid medications or the presence of tumors. If medication is the culprit, doctors adjust the dosage or switch to alternative treatments. Tumors, particularly those in the adrenal glands, are responsible for about 20% of cases and may require surgical intervention.
If left untreated, the condition caused by elevated cortisol may be complicated with depression, poor memory, high blood pressure, heart conditions, and susceptibility to infections.
The article about Schumer points out the need to raise awareness and not be deterred when dealing with mystery ailing health. Following online trollers, she was diagnosed, and yet it shows there is a need for compassion and understanding especially in discussing others’ looks.
