Q: I heard tumors could be affecting my diabetes. Is this true?
A: Diabetes is a serious condition that raises your risk for several health issues, including cardiovascular disease, foot and limb injuries and serious COVID-19. This chronic disease can be caused by multiple factors, and one of the lesser-known causes are adrenal tumors.
The adrenal glands are found above each kidney. They are triangle-shaped and measure about half an inch in height and 3 inches in length. The adrenal glands are complex organs that keep the body in balance by making cortisol and other hormones critical for maintaining good health.
It is common for benign, or non-cancerous, tumors to develop in the adrenal gland. Up to 20% of adrenal tumors make excess hormones, and one such hormone is cortisol. That can lead to a condition known as Cushing’s syndrome (CS), which can significantly reduce a patient’s overall well-being and life expectancy. CS and diabetes are closely linked as it is estimated that up to 50% of patients with CS have varying degrees of altered glucose metabolism.
When adrenal tumors are discovered on imaging modalities, consultation with a physician on the best ways to treat or remove them is recommended.
Dr. Heath Giles specializes in general and endocrinology surgery at University Surgical Associates and is a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.
Dr. Heath Giles