Cushing’s syndrome occurs as a result of too much production of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is released during times of stress; therefore, it is also called a stress hormone.
What are the treatments for Cushing's syndrome?
Cushing’s disease is usually caused by a tumour that results in too much secretion of cortisol in the body. Certain medications used for the treatment of other conditions can also lead to the production of cortisol, this hormone. Red and round faces, rapid weight gain, general weakness, diabetes, blurry vision, purple stretch marks on the abdomen, weak muscles, and high blood pressure are some of the symptoms of this condition. Cushing’s syndrome, if left untreated, can be fatal. A health insurance policy is important for people suffering from Cushing’s syndrome because it provides essential financial support for necessary medical interventions.
The cure for Cushing’s syndrome depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Reducing glucocorticoid doses: If higher cortisol levels are due to the side effects of glucocorticoid medicine, then the healthcare provider will likely reduce the dose of the medicine or change the medication to a non-glucocorticoid.
- Medications: when surgery, radiotherapy, and other options cannot be used, then medicines like ketoconazole, mitotane, and metyrapone are used for the treatment of Cushing's disease.
- Surgery: If Cushing’s syndrome is caused by a tumour in the pituitary, hypothalamus, or adrenal gland, then surgical removal of the tumour is done.
- Radiation therapy: Tumours located in the pituitary gland are sometimes difficult to remove. In such cases, radiation therapy is done to stop the growth and remove the tumour.
- Chemotherapy: If the Cushing’s disease is caused by a cancerous tumour, then treatment may include chemotherapy to stop the spread of the disease.
If the treatment is done properly, then the disease may go away within two to 18 months, depending on the cause of the disease.