ALL ABOUT CUSHING'S SYNDROME

What Is Cushing's Syndrome?

WHAT IS CUSHING'S SYNDROME? 

Cushing's Syndrome occurs when too much cortisol hormone is released into the body.

The additional cortisol released into the body can cause havoc on the body.

Cushing's Syndrome is also known as Hypercortisolism.

Cushing's Syndrome disease is more frequent in women than men.

The most often seen age range for people with Cushing's Syndrome is  25 to 40 years old.

Cushing's Disease is the opposite of Adrenal Insufficiency.

WHAT CAUSES CUSHING'S SYNDROME? 

  • A tumor or tumors inside the body
  • Consuming too much corticosteroid medications

Cushing's Disease can be a difficult disease to diagnosis and treatment. 

There is no single definitive test to diagnose Cushing Syndrome. The diagnosis of Cushing's Syndrome involves a thorough physical examination and a review of your medical history and symptoms.

The following Laboratory Tests may help with a Cushing's Syndrome diagnosis:

  • 24-hour urinary (free cortisol test)
  • Midnight cortisol plasma and late evening salivary cortisol measurements
  • low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) (blood test)

Fortunately, the National Institute Of Health (NIH)  published the PRKACA enzyme has been linked to a severe form of Cushing's Syndrome.

PRKACA enzyme code is regulated by the PRKAR1A. The PRKAR1A has numerous functions within the metabolism of the cell and had previously been found in a similar form of Cushing's Syndrome. The new finding of the PRKACA enzyme links its pathway in Cushing's Syndrome.

You can read more about the National Institute of Health (NIH) article about the PRKACA enzyme at: http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/march2014/03102014cushing.htm

SYMPTOMS OF CUSHING'S SYNDROME

  • Your stomach resembles a large beer belly
  • You have red stretch marks on your stomach
  • Your neck mirrors a buffalo hump
  • Your face is puffy
  • You are exhausted, beyond tired

The treatment for Cushing Syndrome will depend on what triggered your excess cortisol. 

Your doctor may prescribe a medication that may help control cortisol production.

If the additional cortisol surge is caused by a tumor (tumors) then tumor (tumors) may be removed.

If the additional cortisol surge is caused by a tumor (tumors) then tumor (tumors) may be removed.

You can read about my HypoGal  journey at, My Story.

 

RESOURCES:

http://www.healthline.com/health/cushing-syndrome#Causes3

http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/march2014/03102014cushing.htm

 

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