Cushing’s disease is usually triggered if a person has high levels of hormones in their blood called Cortisol. Cortisol is a natural steroid produced in the body’s adrenal glands and helps regulate your blood pressure, cardiovascular functions, and metabolism. Your body will generally maintain your natural cortisone level. Most people have a higher cortisol level in the morning and a lower level in the evening. When stressed your body will produce a higher level of cortisone, some people think that drinking excessive alcohol can cause the body to create too much cortisol, as can severe depression.
Doctors can increase your cortisol with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation effects from conditions like asthma and atopic eczema. It can also be used to help treat autoimmune conditions like Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroids can be taken in a number of forms including oral tablets, injections, inhalers and lotions.
There is another form of Cushing’s disease called Endogenous Cushing’s syndrome, this is when a small, benign tumor develops inside the body’s gland and produces excessive hormones. Women between the ages of 25-40 are five times more likely to develop this then men.
Common symptoms of Cushing’s disease include;
Weight gain – you may notice an obvious fluctuation in weight particularly in the chest, stomach and face. People who suffer from Cushing’s disease often have slimmer limbs in comparison to their torso. Also fatty deposits can be found in the shoulders and back of the neck, also known as ‘buffalo hump’ . Their face will also change to be round, red and puffy.
Skin changes – if you are suffering from Cushing’s disease you may find stretch marks on your thighs, stomach, buttocks, breasts, legs and arms from weakening of the skin. Your skin will become thinner as the blood vessels weaken and can bruise easily and take longer to heal.
You may also develop acne on your face, chest and shoulders. Your legs can swell as a result of fluid buildup and you will notice an increase in your regular perspiration.
Women may notice absent or irregular menstrual cycles and grow excessive facial or body hair, whereas men will notice a decreased libido, possible erectile dysfunction and infertility. Children suffering from Cushing’s disease may have delayed or absent growth.
Cushing’s disease can also affect your mental health with high states of emotion and fatigue leading to depression. It may also cause kidney stones, hypertension and an increase in blood sugar levels.
Your doctor will test for cortisol in a number of ways; it can be tested through urine samples, blood tests and a saliva test. The saliva test may have to be taken in the middle of the night – when the body’s cortisol levels are at their lowest so the doctor can determine an abnormal high amount in your body; this may involve an overnight stay in the hospital.
Treatment will involve a gradual withdrawal from corticosteroids. This cannot be an immediate withdrawal as the body may stop producing its natural steroids. Fast withdrawal can cause unpleasant side effects such as; fatigue, rapid weight loss, nausea, dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea.
If you are suffering from Endogenous Cushing’s Syndrome, then treatment may require surgery to remove the tumor in the gland. The surgery will be done under general anesthetic only if it is safe to operate on the gland without complications. If there is a risk then medication will usually be provided to counter affect the high cortisol levels in your body. Treatment by operation is normally successful in 8 out of 10 cases.
Controlling the symptoms of Cushing’s disease can take from several weeks to several years. You can help aid your recovery at home after successful treatment. Make sure you eat a sensible and wholesome diet. Healthy and nutritious foods provide a good source of fuel and may also be help you shed the excessive weight you have gained through Cushing’s disease. Taking calcium and vitamin D together will help your body absorb the calcium and rebuild your bone strength. Remember to take it easy as your muscles will be weakened, build up your strength slowly with gentle exercise like Tai Chi but do not surpass your body’s comfort zone.
Soothe aches and pains in your muscles and joints with hot baths, massages and water therapy. Remember depression is a side effect of Cushing’s disease which can develop or linger post treatment. Do not ignore depression; seek help and advice from your doctor or therapist.
Cushing’s disease can take its toll on your body and mind but remember you do not have to go through this alone, there are plenty of support groups online and maybe in your local area, ask your doctor for links and advice.
