The stress hormone cortisol is produced when the body encounters stress. Situations such as trauma, illness, or high anxiety can cause the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. Sometimes, there is an overproduction, which can lead to Cushing’s syndrome, which affects more women than men.
There are various reasons why the adrenals may overproduce cortisol. Tumors in certain areas, such as the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, pancreas, and thyroid, can cause the body to develop the condition. The use of oral corticosteroids can also cause Cushing’s syndrome.