Too much of everything is not good. If you are going through cushing syndrome, this simply is because your body produces excess cortisol hormones and it can also be due to hypercortisolism. Embrace every opportunity to learn new things, it can save lives. There’s a lot to learn about Cushing syndrome, its causes, and prevention if possible.
What Is Cushing Syndrome?
Cushing syndrome is a condition known as hypercortisolism. It is a disorder of the hormones caused by high levels of cortisol hormones in the body. Cortisol is spotted in the adrenal gland on top of the kidneys.
Cortisol helps the body to keep blood pressure balanced, control blood sugar levels, and reduce inflammation.
Cushing syndrome mostly affects women between the ages of 25 to 40 years.
Not all cases of Cushing syndrome are curable. It only takes a gradual process to get completely cured.
Causes Of Cushing Syndrome
When there’s excess cortisol in the body for a very long time, it can lead to cushing syndrome. The well-known cause of Cushing syndrome is the use of medication commonly known as corticosteroids or any steroids like prednisone.
These medications are strong anti-inflammatory medications used for the treatment of asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and organ transplant. Since it’s a powerful medication, when it is being taken excessively, it can cause Cushing syndrome.
Aside from steroid pills, constant injectable steroids for bursitis, joint pain, and back pains can cause cushing syndrome.
Another cause is the presence of a tumor in the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. Also, a tumor in the adrenal gland can trigger the body to produce excess cortisol which can lead to Cushing syndrome.
Symptoms Of Cushing Syndrome
Symptoms vary depending on the individual but when the syndrome becomes worse, you will notice the following symptoms:
- Osteoporosis: this is a condition in which the bones become weak. It’s an incurable disease.
- Depression: this is a normal reflex of everyone who becomes aware of being a victim of a deadly disease. Being sad and wanting to be alone is critical and it can only worsen the situation.
- Anxiety: Being overly worried can also be a perfect sign of Cushing syndrome. If you get anxious too much, try to go for a medical checkup.
- Irregular periods: this can also be caused by Cushing syndrome. If you notice this, don’t assume it’s normal or an infection, kindly go to a medical center for a check-up.
- Low fertility
- Kidney stones
- Low libido
- Fatigue
- Acne
- Upper body weight gain
- Weak shoulder and hip muscles
- Face becoming round and rosy
- Increased blood pressure
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, endeavor to notify your doctor instantly. Your doctor will monitor the symptoms and ensure that you are receiving the right treatment.
How To Prevent Cushing Syndrome
Cushing syndrome can be prevented when it is influenced by the use of corticosteroids excessively. So when you take corticosteroids, inform your doctor to keep track of your cortisol level, once the levels start increasing and probably yielding health risk signs, then you could stop to prevent the occurrence of Cushing syndrome.
When it comes to tumors being the cause of Cushing syndrome, it can not be prevented. It occurred naturally.
Treatment Of Cushing Syndrome
Cushing syndrome can be treated but it depends on the cause. If it’s caused by steroids your doctor can let you inform you about reducing dosage.
If it is caused by a tumor or any other means, the following can done
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Radiotherapy
- Medication to prevent the body from producing more cortisol
Conclusion
Diseases without cure often break a person down when diagnosed with it. It will be a struggle for life moment when there’s a possibility or chance of preventing disease, let’s take the initiative to make good use of the preventive measures.
Cushing syndrome can be prevented if it is triggered by corticosteroid medications, so if you are under this medication don’t fail to inform your doctor to keep a record of your cortisol level as this will help to know when to stop taking the medication.
Cushing syndrome caused by tumors cannot be prevented but it can be managed. Eat healthy dietary food to minimize symptoms, and reduce depression and anxiety.
