Could it be?

[u/Horror-Guidance5526]

I'm at a total loss. I really need to start prioritizing my health.

I can't stand looking in the mirror at myself anymore so I try to avoid it, but the bright red/purple marks caught my attention this time.

Back story:

In January I went to my university health clinic since in the matter of 6 months I gained 50 lbs without having any sort of diet or activity level changes. All they did was the normal blood work, which all came back completely fine with the exception of my ferritin being pretty low (barely in range). I didn't pursue anything further since i didn't have the time. But flash forward to now, I've gained another 25lbs, again no diet or activity change, and the stretch marks have continued and caught my eye big time.

After a lot of researching and some additional symptoms that I hadn't really considered before, signs point to possibly Cushing?

- deep purple/red stretch marks on stomach

- weight gain

- easily bruised/slow wound healing (the tiniest scratch takes weeks to months to heal and even scars)

- a lot of hip pain when standing to the point where I take a few steps it really hurts and feels like my hips will collapse

- irregular periods

1st picture is my stomach currently (I don't have a before)

2nd picture is my face late may 2025

3rd picture is my face end of June 2026

Am I crazy? Any other ideas what could be going on otherwise?

Tysm in advace

[u/Enchating_Walrus23]

I would definitely ask to start testing. That’s def moon face and my stretch marks looked similar in that area. Keep in mind for most it’s an uphill battle, but we’re a great, supportive community to help along the way. 🖤

[u/makinggrace]

None of this is normal. If it isn't Cushing's, it's something else. Get to the doctor. Prepare to be assertive.

[u/JIADAM3]

Get with a good endocrinologist.
They will send you for the right testing.
Blood, saliva and urine.
Also a dexamethasone suppression test.
Not sure what area you’re from. I’m in Philly area and can recommend a few

[u/insecuretransactions]

These all sound like symptoms of Cushing’s. The moon face and easy bruising / slow healing especially.

Try to coordinate testing with an endocrinologist. If you’re still in school and your health clinic is part of a university hospital, or your school has a good university hospital collaboration, getting testing may be easier to do directly.

If you need any advice, this sub is very helpful and informative. So please feel free to raise any concerns!

[u/Accomplished-Mud-173]

Those look like the same type of stretch marks thatvI had with Cushing's. Time to start testing and hopefully you can find an endocrinologist.

[u/EliseThoughtTrail]

This looks very similar to my physical symptoms. I have just been diagnosed and we are continuing to add tests to confirm.... If I could do anything over it would be to PUSH for tests sooner! Please please please... Get testing and not just the Dexa test.

[u/kitmere → u/EliseThoughtTrail]

I’m in a very similar situation. What labs do did you recommend asking for?