Cushing's Disease - Natural Health 4 Dogs
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Cushing's Disease
Understanding Cushing's Disease
Cushing’s disease is caused by an endocrine disorder that results in the overproduction of a natural steroid hormone called Cortisol. Cortisol is usually released during times of stress and has several functions within the body: metabolises protein, carbohydrates and fat, increases blood sugar and suppresses the immune system.
The endocrine system is made up of different glands, some of which are in organs, which work together to release hormones into the body as and when required. Each hormone has a very specific function, and the system has a message ‘loopback’ which circulates information so that the correct hormones are released in the correct quantities to regulate numerous bodily functions. If any tiny part of the system stops working properly, it will have knock-on effects in other areas as they are so interdependent.
When Cushing’s disease is suspected the main glands to be checked are the pituitary and adrenal glands.
The pituitary gland is found at the base of the brain and is sometimes referred to as the master gland because it controls many of the other glands. It is attached to the hypothalamus gland which collects the information the pituitary gland uses to release the correct hormones and stimulate hormone production in other glands.
The adrenal glands are positioned just above the kidneys, and they are responsible for secreting the hormone, cortisol. The pituitary gland releases a hormone, ACTH, which tells the adrenal glands to produce cortisol and how much is needed.
The majority of cases – about 85% - of Cushing’s Disease are caused by a tumour on the pituitary gland which causes it to give out faulty information to the adrenal glands causing an over-production of cortisol. About 15% of cases are caused by tumours on the adrenal glands themselves. A very small number of cases are caused by the overuse of corticosteroids to treat other symptoms, but the availability of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is reducing this number further.
There are several symptoms that point to Cushing’s Disease that can also be caused by other problems. Since cortisol is released in reaction to stress, it makes sense that blood and urine tests taken from your dog at the vet clinic may contain higher than normal levels of cortisol and this can lead to an incorrect diagnosis of Cushing’s.
If possible, get a urine sample from your dog while he is at home and in a relaxed frame of mind. This will give a more accurate reading in the Cortisol-Creatine Ratio Test. A urine specific gravity test of less than 1.025 means Cushing’s Disease is likely if other symptoms also exist such as hair loss on the body, excessive thirst, and urination, a pot-bellied appearance, excessive panting, obvious muscle-wastage, a ravenous appetite but no corresponding weight-gain, among others.
Blood tests will show the body’s reaction when an artificial ACTH is injected but won’t necessarily show whether the pituitary or adrenal glands are at fault. An ultrasound or x-ray may show if either or both of the adrenal glands and liver are enlarged or if any tumours have formed. If both adrenal glands are enlarged, the problem is likely to be with the pituitary gland.
Cushing’s caused by a diseased pituitary gland can be treated by medications that control the cortisol output by the adrenal glands. Regular checks will be needed to ensure the correct dosage is given. It may be possible to remove any tumours surgically, or radiation treatment may be another option.
An adrenal gland problem can be treated by removing the diseased gland.
The good news is that there are natural methods to support dogs with Cushing’s Disease. A veterinary homeopath can use Homeopathic Pituitary and Homeopathic Formic Acid, and you can do your bit in many ways.
First off, remember that cortisol is a stress-related hormone, so you need to reduce your dog’s stress levels as much as possible. You can do this by giving your dog opportunities to enjoy himself without wearing him out, for instance, taking him for a walk, socialising with other dogs, playtime activities followed by a cuddle and massage, or grooming.
Give him a healthy, fresh diet – preferably raw – which will boost the immune system. Good quality lean proteins will reduce muscle-wastage and boost skin health, and keep fat levels down - all areas affected by Cushing’s Disease. A small amount of fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruit deliver micronutrients and help with digestion and detoxification, and so support the liver and kidneys. The great thing about fresh diets is that you can provide a variety of ingredients to best suit your dog and change items as needed to keep his diet perfectly suited to his needs.
Herbs such as milk thistle and dandelion have excellent detoxing properties and can be given as tinctures or teas, along with Apple Cider Vinegar and small amounts of garlic, which help to cleanse the blood. CBD oil is also proving helpful to some dogs.
Physical treatments can also help. Acupuncture is one of my favourite ways of ensuring proper alignment, balance, and energy flow in the body. Only use a properly trained animal acupuncturist.
Consider neck health! Since the pituitary gland sits at the base of the brain, you don’t want anything to restrict good blood flow to and from the area. Use a body harness when you go out with your dog instead of attaching a lead to his collar and ensure any collar he wears is soft and can’t be pulled tight.
Finally, try to reduce the toxic load. Avoid unnecessary vaccinations and medications. Look for natural solutions to ticks, fleas, and worms. There are also plenty of natural dog shampoos available and keeping your dog’s skin clean can reduce toxins on the skin, the body’s largest organ, and boost blood circulation. Also, consider your home environment and avoid chemical cleaners. I use vinegar, lemon juice and water to clean floors and surfaces after watching how diligently my dogs lick their paws clean!
While there may not be a cure for Cushing’s Disease, there are lots of ways that you can help your dog live longer and be more comfortable despite it.
References:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/c_dg_hyperadrenocorticism
https://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/outreach/Pet-Health-Topics/categories/diseases/cushing's-disease
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cushings-disease-in-dogs
https://pettao.com/dog-cushings-disease-natural-treatments/