Hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing's disease, generally affects middle-aged dogs and is difficult to diagnose. Symptoms are similar to those experienced through the normal aging process and the dog does not appear to be sick.
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Imbalance
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Cushing's develops when the adrenal gland is overproducing blood cortisol and steroids. The adrenal glands, near the kidneys, work with the pituitary gland, at the base of the skull, to control the balance of these hormones in the bloodstream. The most common cause of Cushing's is a tumor on either the pituitary or adrenal glands, which upsets the balance between the two.
Symptoms
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The most common symptoms of Cushing's disease are a pot-bellied appearance, increased appetite and drinking, excessive urination and muscle weakness.
Appetite
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Dogs affected with Cushing's will seem extraordinarily hungry and will eat much more than normal if allowed. Despite this, the dog will have a distended abdomen but will lose weight along the spine and appear bony in its head.
Polyphagia
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A ravenous appetite and increased food intake is known as polyphagia. Dogs experiencing polyphagia will generally gain weight, creating other health problems associated with obesity such as arthritis. Between 80 and 90 percent of dogs with Cushing's will show increased appetite. Dogs who begin to steal or guard food and dig through trash cans may be suffering from Cushing's.
Treatment
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While Cushing's cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed to create a better quality of life for the dog. Surgery and drug therapy are the primary treatments available. Most symptoms will begin to resolve about four to six months following the beginning of treatments, although some symptoms, including polyphagia may disappear almost immediately.
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