The Cushing’s syndrome or hypercortisolism is a disorder that takes place when a body starts producing cortisol in excess. Reasons that cause excessive production of cortisol include tumors of the adrenal, pituitary, thyroid, and the parathyroid glands. Cortisol serves so many integral functions in human body like maintaining proper blood pressure, conversion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, and a number of other functions. However, if its amount in the body exceeds normal limit then it gives rise to the Cushing’s syndrome.
Cushing’s syndrome symptoms
The symptoms include wasting of the limbs, weight gain around the abdomen, “moon face,” slow skin healing and ulcers, thirst and frequent urination, high blood pressure, headache, impotence, mood swings, high white blood cell count, no or irregular menstrual cycle, susceptibility to TB and pneumonia, and increased facial hair growth in women.
Diet and lifestyle changes that cure Cushing’s syndrome
Watch your calcium consumption
One of the many side-effects Cushing’s syndrome leaves on human body is the risk of osteoporosis, as it makes the bones weak. Therefore, you must ensure that you consume 1000 milligrams of calcium every day, which maintain bone strength. You can consume low-fat dairy products, juices, tofu made with calcium sulfate, cereals and green leafy vegetables.
Exercise gently
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. You are supposed to exercise everyday if you want to cure Cushing’s syndrome but make sure you indulge in mild and gentle exercises, especially during initial phase when your body is recovering. Yoga, water aerobics, and other low-impact exercises work wonders. If in any one pose or exercise step you experience even a mild pain, you should stop practicing it there and then.
Consider your mental health
Depression is common in people suffering from Cushing’s syndrome, so you really need to take care of your mental health so that you escape it. The moment you start to feel some sort of gloominess and detachment from the outer world, at once you should seek a professional help and nip it in the bud.
Consider your Sodium intake
High blood pressure is another symptom of Cushing’s syndrome, and high sodium intake increases the risk of high blood pressure. Therefore, you should keep your sodium intake under check and avoid processed foods like cheese, soups, some snacks, meats, and breads that have high sodium contents.
Treatment of Cushing’s syndrome depends upon its severity. The severe syndrome treatment includes use of cortisol-inhibiting drugs, and surgery. On the other hand, the less severe syndrome you can treat on your own with the help of some dietary and lifestyle changes.