Cushing’s syndrome is a pathological condition of the body, characterized by exposure to an excessive amount of cortisol hormone produced by the adrenal glands. The main cause of the disease is a violation of the regulatory mechanisms responsible for the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system.
The disease can occur at any age; it can be both congenital and acquired. The main characteristics of the disease: violation of fat metabolism, destruction of bone tissue, heart and vascular damage, high blood glucose levels, mental disorders.
In women, the pathology occurs 10 times more often than in men, and in most cases develops at the age of 25-40 years.
Symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome
The main sign of Cushing’s syndrome is a pronounced obesity. In this case, the excess body weight is distributed unevenly – fat is deposited in the face, neck, chest, back and abdomen. The extremities, as a rule, remain thin. The face becomes moon-shaped, a feverish purplish-red blush appears on it, acne is observed.
Other signs of endocrine disease:
- muscle atrophy, muscle weakness;
- fragility of the bony skeleton, susceptibility to fractures;
- posture disorders (kyphosis, scoliosis);
- pallor of the skin, clearly visible vascular pattern;
- vivid striae (stretch marks) in the abdomen, chest and buttocks;
- high blood pressure;
- arrhythmia;
- decreased vision;
- frequent headaches;
- menstrual irregularities;
- sexual dysfunction,
- rapid fatigue;
- tendency to neurosis.
Cushing’s syndrome causes
In Cushing’s syndrome, there is an increase in the size of the adrenal glands. As a result, the glands begin to secrete large amounts of corticosteroid hormones, which provokes the typical symptomatology of the disease.
The main causes of Cushing’s syndrome:
- hereditary predisposition;
- the presence of pituitary adenoma;
- tumor formations of the adrenal cortex;
- oncologic processes of other organs – lungs, pancreas;
- transferred infections affecting the CNS (meningitis, influenza);
- craniocerebral traumas;
- intoxication of the body;
- hormonal disruption (e.g., pregnancy or menopause);
- prolonged use of medications containing glucocorticoids.
Treatment methods for Cushing’s syndrome
- Therapeutic treatment
The main task of therapeutic treatment is to eliminate the mechanism of excessive production of adrenal hormones, normalize the level of cortisol in the body and control the unpleasant symptoms of the disease. To do this, first of all, the doctor gives the patient the necessary recommendations to change the lifestyle – adherence to a hypocaloric diet and increase physical activity.
- Drug therapy includes the use of the following drugs:
- agents that suppress the production of hormones by the adrenal cortex;
- drugs that reduce blood sugar levels;
- diuretics;
- cardiac glycosides;
- antidepressants or tranquilizers;
Cushing’s syndrome treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy are also used. These methods allow to achieve good therapeutic results in the fight against pathology.
- Surgical treatment
Since in most cases Cushing’s syndrome develops as a result of tumor neoplasms, their surgical removal is necessary. Surgical treatment is carried out by modern minimally invasive methods. The use of high-tech equipment allows our specialists to eliminate the pathology almost bloodlessly, without affecting nearby tissues.
Possible complications of Cushing’s syndrome
Without timely treatment, Cushing’s syndrome can lead to serious complications affecting various body systems. Among the most common consequences:
- Cardiovascular diseases – high blood pressure and high cholesterol increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Osteoporosis – due to calcium deficiency and destruction of bone tissue increases the likelihood of fractures even with minor injuries.
- Diabetes mellitus – metabolic disorders contribute to the development of insulin resistance and increased blood glucose levels.
- Infectious diseases – weakened immunity makes the body more vulnerable to viruses and bacteria.
- Mental disorders – depression, anxiety, emotional instability often accompany patients with this disease.
Therefore, it is extremely important not only to treat Cushing’s syndrome, but also to regularly monitor the condition of the body to prevent possible complications.
Rehabilitation
After the tumor is removed and Cushing’s syndrome is treated, rehabilitation begins, including the following activities.
- Adherence to the regimen: bed rest, regular dressings and therapeutic nutrition are prescribed immediately after surgery.
- Drug and radiation therapy: antihormonal drugs or hormone replacement therapy are used to restore normal hormone levels in the body. Radiation therapy is aimed at reducing the risk of tumor recurrence.
- Physiotherapy: massage, exercise and apparatus procedures are performed to restore muscles and joints, increase general activity and improve the patient’s condition.
- Psychological support: counseling by a psychologist helps the patient to cope with the emotional difficulties associated with the treatment process and the consequences of the disease.
The rehabilitation program is developed individually, taking into account the patient’s condition and the doctor’s recommendations.
Prevention of Cushing’s syndrome
Preventive measures help reduce the risk of developing Cushing’s syndrome, especially in people with hereditary predisposition or chronic diseases. To maintain hormonal balance, it is recommended to:
- lead a healthy lifestyle, observe the sleep and rest regime;
- eat a healthy diet, limit the consumption of sugar and fatty foods;
- maintain regular physical activity;
- avoid stress and overwork;
- undergo regular medical examinations, especially in the case of endocrine disorders;
- strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations when taking glucocorticoid medications to avoid overdose and complications.
Conclusion
Cushing’s syndrome is a serious endocrine disease that, if untreated, can lead to severe complications, including damage to the cardiovascular system, osteoporosis, diabetes and decreased immunity. However, timely diagnosis and properly selected therapy can significantly improve the quality of life of patients and achieve persistent remission. It is important to be attentive to your health, regularly undergo medical examinations and follow the doctor’s recommendations. Prevention, a healthy lifestyle and control of hormone levels are key factors that can reduce the risk of developing this disease.
