Cushing Syndrome

Introduction

Cushing’s syndrome is an uncommon condition when you have high levels of cortisol in your body. Another term for Cushing’s syndrome is hypercortisolism. It is not a single disease but a group of diseases. Cortisol is a steroid hormone commonly known as the stress hormone. During time of stress, your body releases extra cortisol.

What is the role of cortisol in the body?

It is stress hormone, is secreted by the adrenal glands.

Suppresses inflammation
Control blood pressure
Control blood sugar
Regulates the body’s stress response
Salt balance in your body
Converting the energy in your diet
Making new memories

Causes of Cushing Syndrome

Pituitary Adenomas- Cushing’s disease

Ectopic ACTH syndrome: Ectopic ACTH syndrome occurs when benign or malignant tumors outside the pituitary gland produce ACTH. Common tumor types that produce ACTH are lung tumors, produce ACTH are lung tumors, pancreatic islet cell tumors, medullary carcinoma of the thyroid and thymoma.

Adrenal tumor

Familial Cushing syndrome

Long-term glucocorticoid therapy: Asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus or other inflammatory diseases

Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Corticosteroid medications

Symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome

Round or moon shaped face
Increased risk of infection
Accumulation of excess fat in the neck and shoulder area
Central obesity with thin arms and legs
Stretch marks, such as pink or purple streaks on the abdomen, thighs and buttocks
Erectile dysfunction and decreased libido in men
Hirsutism and irregular menstrual cycles in women
Muscle weakness
Increased blood pressure
Osteoporosis
Slow growth in children with cushing’s syndrome
Mental illness

How to diagnosed Cushing’s syndrome

Urine and blood test
Saliva test
CT scan, MRI
Low dose dexamethasone suppressions test

Risk of Cushing’s syndrome

Malnutrition
Injury
Pregnancy related stress
Athletic training
Alcoholism
High levels of stress, panic disorder or emotional distress

Complication

High BP
Sugar
Recurrent or unusual infections
Muscle damage
Osteoporosis
Thromboembolism

Diet tips for Cushing syndrome

Power up your calcium
Eat whole grains
Non- starchy vegetables and fruits
Stay hydrated
Keep your muscles strong
Regular yoga and exercise
Avoid salt, dry, oily and junk foods
Sleep properly
Consume a balanced diet

Natural herbs for Cushing’s syndrome

Spinach

It helps to control electrolyte imbalances. It is a rich source of antioxidants and has been linked to controlled hormonal levels in the body

Dandelion tea

The antioxidant compounds found in dandelions help in liver, kidney, and adrenal gland operate optimally, It is an effective remedy for Cushing’s syndrome

Avocados

Inflammation throughout the body is a common side effect of Cushing ’syndrome, and Avocados have high omega-3 fatty acid levels that can reduce widespread inflammation effectively.

Magnolia Bark

It decreased levels of cortisol in the body, which makes this a key herbal supplement in the treatment of Cushing’s syndrome. It also reduces stress and anxiety.

Licorice is soothing

Licorice root is anti-inflammatory as well as adaptogenic in nature. It helps fight anxiety and depression. So, you can consume half to one teaspoon of licorice root powder with warm water or milk once daily to alleviate the symptoms

Ayurvedic view of Cushing syndrome

In Ayurveda Cushing’s syndrome is managed based on the symptoms.Excess consumption of salty, food, suppression of natural urges, hyper or hypo functioning of agni affects dhatu again leads to symptoms of Cushing syndrome. Panchakarma therapies for Cushing’s syndrome such as Nasya, basti

Ayurvedic herbs use in Cushing’s syndrome