Dogs' Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease Natural Remedy

Iatrogenic Cushing's disease in dogs is the most easily treated form of Cushing's. This article will seek to explain what causes iatrogenic Cushing's disease, how to treat it and how to holistically support your dog's compromised system following treatment.

Cushing's disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is fairly common in middle-age and senior dogs. Cushing's disease is marked by the overproduction of the adrenal gland hormone corticosteroid. Symptoms include increased hunger and thirst, panting, hair loss, increased urination, loss of bladder control, distended abdomen, high blood pressure, calcified skin lumps and dry/thinning skin. Uncontrolled Cushing's disease can lead to more serious secondary conditions such as diabetes, pancreatitis, heart disease, skeletal weakness and nervous system disorders.

There are two possible causes of Cushing's disease in dogs. It can develop naturally, usually the result of a benign tumor on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands, or it may develop as the direct result of overuse or long-term use of cortisol given to the dog in order to treat a skin condition or allergy. This is called iatrogenic (veterinary-induced) Cushing's disease. By giving the dog a cortisol-based drug such as Prednisone, we are essentially inundating the dog's body with corticosteroid much like a tumor would.

Iatrogenic Cushing's disease is usually reversible. Since this form of Cushing's disease is caused by medication, the obvious first step is to stop medicating. Medications should not be stopped abruptly, but slowly tapered off under a doctor's supervision. Sudden withdrawal of medication could result in vomiting, diarrhea, heart failure and even death. Dogs with iatrogenic Cushing's disease typically have extremely atrophied adrenal glands that have ceased to function because they have become unnecessary--after all, your dog's body has been receiving massive doses of cortisol from another source, rendering his adrenal glands obsolete. Thus, by slowly and carefully weaning your dog off of the external dose of cortisol, the adrenal glands will have time to recover and should begin to function normally again. Homeopathic remedies such as Cushex Drops (PetAlive.com) can help to normalize adrenal function during the weaning process. As always, administer any remedy under veterinary supervision.

Dandelion is believed to support adrenal function.Typically, once the offending medication has been completely removed from your dog's system, normal adrenal function should return. However, if your dog is still experiencing some side effects from the cortisol, there are natural remedies available to support your dog's adrenal system. Cushex and Supraglan (PetWellBeing.com) both claim to provide all-natural support by improving adrenal function and addressing symptoms such as dry skin, hair loss and loss of bladder control. Herbs such as huang qi, dandelion and burdock are also believed to help maintain adrenal function and normalize corticosteroid levels. As always, consult your veterinarian before administering any remedy to your dog.

Go natural whenever possible.Now that the cortisol drugs have been flushed from your dog's body and her adrenal function has returned to normal, one problem may remain, and that is how to treat the condition that required the cortisol drug in the first place. Talk to your veterinarian about finding a natural remedy for your dog's skin condition or allergy. If your vet is reluctant or unwilling to discuss the natural route with you, you may need to get a second opinion, locate a holistic practitioner, or do some very careful research on your own. Generally speaking, it is a good idea to have guidance from someone who has an intricate understanding of canine physiology. Something as simple as switching to a higher-quality specialized diet may be all your dog needs. There are also medicated (holistic) baths, oils and sprays that may soothe your pooch. The treatment you use will, of course, depend on your dog's specific condition. Whatever you choose, be mindful that anything you rub or spray onto your dog will probably end up in her stomach, too, so be prudent.