2/22/2013

If your dog has hypercortisolism, or hyperadrenocorticism, it may sound scary. So, you should learn all you can about it, in order to understand it better. For a start, you should know that it's commonly called Cushings Disease and that Cushings Disease in dogs can present itself in lots of different ways.



On a physical level, Cushings Disease could cause your dog to urinate frequently or seem extremely thirsty, for example. He or she might also pant more than a normal dog would and could even lose patches of fur for no apparent reason.



Cushings can also affect your pet's mood. Since they don't feel well they could become very lethargic and low-energy. They might not seem to care at all that you are even there, when they used to jump at the chance to do things with you.



What is Cushings Disease Exactly?



Well, Cushings Disease in dogs is a disease that affects the dog's adrenal glands. It's an endocrine disease, which affects the levels of cortisol and cortisone that your dog's body produces. Cortisol and cortisone are steroids that your dog's body produces naturally but, when over-produced, they can lead to some major health problems for your pet.



Tumors in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands are the main causes of Cushings Disease in dogs. Modern medical intervention can also cause it, though. For example, if your dog has a different health condition and is taking prednisone, it can cause them to develop Cushings, as can other medications.



Treatment of Cushings:



Since your dog's liver is very susceptible to damage from over production of cortisol and cortisone, untreated Cushings Disease really puts their liver at risk for disease and, possibly, total shut down. Cushings can affect your dog in other ways, too, though. For example, it can cause heart trouble for your pet, as well as an increased risk of diabetes.



Luckily, there are treatments for Cushings Disease in dogs. Before you consider traditional medication as a treatment, though, remember that many of them have harsh side-effects. In fact, your dog's Cushings might have been caused by medication that he or she was taking in the first place, as mentioned earlier.



Instead, you might want to consider some natural alternatives. First, you should talk to your vet about changing your dog's diet. A lot of processed foods are not good for your pet. So, you may need to take a natural approach to feeding, as well as Cushings treatment. You could also discuss herbal remedies and supplements. There are lots of supplements and herbs that are designed to support a dog's adrenal glands.



When it comes to herbal treatments, you have a lot of options. Some, such as hepar or arsenicum, are designed to treat certain symptoms of your dog's cusings. Some, though, are designed for more of an over all effect. burdock, dandelion and astragalus are among some ofthe most common homeopathic options for treating Cushings Disease in dogs, but be sure to talk to your dog's vet about the best treatment for your furry friend's individual case.
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