Extra weight is unhealthy. This is particularly true for people with excess fat in the abdomen or upper body. The distribution of body fat in these areas is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. An extreme form of changing body composition occurs in the medical condition called Cushing's syndrome. In this condition the body is exposed to chronic, very high levels of the catabolic hormone cortisol.
Excess fat is deposited in the abdomen, neck and face while the muscles of the arms and legs waste.
Easy bruising, stretch marks, swelling and an increased risk of diabetes and high blood pressure are associated with this syndrome. Other conditions such as liver disease, bowel disorders and abdominal tumors can be associated with abdominal enlargement and should not be confused with normal weight gain. Evaluation by a doctor is needed if abdominal enlargement is associated with other signs and symptoms such as pain, change in bowel habits, nausea or vomiting, jaundice, leg swelling, urinary problems, fatigue or weight loss. Most lumps or swelling found in the scrotum are not serious. Testicular cancer Cancer of the testicle is uncommon.