A dog's chemical and hormonal systems are carefully balanced and run with some very specific and fragile processes. Although these processes normally go on without a dog's knowledge and support both themselves and others, they can become unbalanced due to both genetic and outside causes. Cushing's disease is one example of an unbalanced system. Cushing's is not fatal and can be treated.
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Cushing's Disease
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Cushing's disease, or syndrome, is a disorder that stems from a malfunction in a dog's adrenal glands. The result is an over-abundance of cortisol in the dog's blood. Since cortisol is a stress hormone (form of adrenalin), it leads the body to over react in a number of ways.
Causes
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The adrenal system consists of both adrenal glands and pituitary glands. When a stressful situation occurs, a dog's pituitary gland releases the hormone ACTH. This hormone triggers the adrenal gland, which produces cortisol in response. Any disruption in the system results in over release of cortisol. Pituitary gland tumors and adrenal damage through steroid use are the most common causes of this disruption.
Symptoms
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Cushing's disease symptoms are vague enough to be easily overlooked until the disorder is advanced. They include increased thirst and hunger, with an accompanying increase in urination. A dog with Cushing's often displays an enlarged abdomen, with thin skin and sometimes hair loss. In advanced cases, the dog's immune system becomes suppressed, leaving it vulnerable to secondary infections.
Treatments
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The treatment for Cushing's is a combination of management and medication. Vets prescribe medications that control both the pituitary and adrenal glands, to restrict the release of cortisol. When the Cushing's is caused by an operable tumor in the pituitary gland, surgery is done. Owners are taught to feed a Cushing's dog a restricted diet, and manage the dog's lifestyle to keep it as safe and comfortable as possible.
Supraglan for Cushing's
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Supraglan is a natural supplement designed to balance the adrenal gland's function. This supplement provides a natural, organic way for pet owners to manage Cushing's. The supplement has been tested and vet approved to restore skin health, reduce thirst and urination, improve the adrenal gland's function, stop hair loss and reduce the overall symptoms of Cushing's. Sypraglan is safe for long-term use and doesn't have any proven side effects. It's made of mistort, wild yams, milk vetch, dandelion, licorice, borage and eleutherococus senticosus.
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