Cushing's & Adrenal Fatigue

Identification

• Cushing's disease is also known as hyperadrenocorticism. Cushing's disease usually strikes older dogs, equally among both genders.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of Cushing's disease are increase appetite, frequent urination, increased thirst, high blood pressure, panting, sagging abdomen, skin lumps, skin discoloration, hair loss and weakness in the muscles. Adrenal fatigue is common with this condition, due to the fact that the adrenal glands are being overworked with the excess production of hormones. The symptoms of adrenal fatigue are fatigue, obesity and increased appetite.

Causes

• Cushing's disease and adrenal fatigue are caused by the overproduction of hormones from the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located just above the kidneys and are responsible for producing cortin, which is a mixture of steroid hormones that help to regulate body weight, mineral balance, skin health and white blood cell production. Cushing's disease in dogs can be caused by a tumor on the adrenal glands or on the pituitary gland.

Diagnosis

• The diagnosis of Cushing's disease and adrenal fatigue in dogs may be made by physical examination. Once Cushing's disease is suspected, it can be confirmed by blood tests. Diagnostic tests may be needed to determine if Cushing's disease is caused by a tumor on the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland.

Treatment

• The treatment for Cushing's disease and adrenal fatigue in dogs is drug therapy that kills the outside layer of the adrenal glands. By regulating the amount of medication the dog takes, the veterinarian may be able to control the amount of hormones produced by the remaining adrenal glands.

Considerations

• It is important to recognize the symptoms of Cushing's disease. If left untreated, Cushing's disease can lead to life-threatening disorders such as diabetes, liver failure, kidney failure and congestive heart failure.