Cushing’s syndrome develops when the body has elevated levels of hormone cortisol for a prolonged period of time. The commonest cause for Cushing’s disease is the use of oral cortico-steroids. Cushing’s syndrome also develops when the body synthesizes excessive amounts of cortisol.
Treatment helps reinstate the body’s cortisol synthesis to normal and your symptoms will improve as well. The earlier the treatment commences, the better will be your recovery.
Causes Of Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s disease occurs due to high levels of cortisol in the body. The adrenals manufacture cortisol; which plays a variety of roles in the body. When your body releases too much of the hormone, you develop Cushing’s syndrome.
An excess is released either from the adrenal glands or there is an over production of ACTH or the adrenocorticotropic hormone which regulate cortisol synthesis. Raised amounts of ACTH may be due to a pituitary gland tumor, malignancy of the adrenal cortex or an ectopic tumor (located in the thymus, thyroid or pancreas) which secretes ACTH.
Cushing’s disease also develops when you take too much corticosteroids for a long duration of time. Taking cortico-steroids in high doses for a protracted period Cushing’s syndrome is known to occur. Your health care provider may prescribe corticosteroids to manage inflammatory diseases, like asthma or rheumatoid arthritis; the doses to treat these conditions are often higher than the quantity of cortisol the body requires each day, symptoms of Cushing’s disease become apparent.
Cushing’s Disease Symptoms
Commonly seen symptoms and manifestations include:
- Weight gain and deposition of fatty tissue, chiefly around on the upper back, at the belly, in the face and in-between the shoulders
- Pink – purple stretch marks develop on the skin, usually, on the belly, thighs, and arms
- Acne
- The skin becomes thin and fragile and bruises easily
- Slow healing of wounds
Symptoms that are seen in women:
- Thicker and / or more visible hair on the face and body
- Irregular menstruation
Frequently seen manifestations in men are:
- Exhaustion and weakness
- Muscle fatigue
- Headache
- Anxiety, bad temper, depression
- Cognitive difficulties
- Raised blood pressure
- Glucose intolerance that leads to diabetes
- Bone loss, leading to fractures
Natural Remedies For Cushing’s Disease
Managing Cushing’s disease naturally needs a multi disciplinary approach:
- Weight management is the crucial aspect of treating Cushing’s disease. Increase your workout routine gradually. Weakened muscles and bones call for a slower approach. Increase your exercise slowly and be consistent with the regimen. You could opt for Yoga, Pilates or aerobics. Low impact exercises are recommended.
- Eat wholesome and nutritious foods that will give you a good source of fuel. Incorporate loads of calcium rich foods such as milk and its products, green leafy vegetables and egg white. You may also talk to your doctor about calcium and vitamin D supplements.
- You need to manage stress and depression well and do not ignore the symptoms. It is prudent to talk to a health care provider / counselor.
- To manage aches and pains, opting for aromatherapy and massage is a very good idea. Also, have a glass of mint and ginger tea daily. Herbal teas not only soothe pains and discomforts, but also help shed surplus weight.
- Keep your brain active. Mental exercises, such as math problems, jigsaws, and crossword puzzles enhance brain functioning.