In this emotional video, I share the heartbreaking story of my Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Lula, and her battle with Cushing's disease. Diagnosed a year ago, Lula's condition gradually worsened, leading us to make the difficult decision to put her to sleep. Please visit my website to get more information: operationfeelf...
She passed away peacefully in my arms on June 11th, 2024. Watch as I recount the symptoms, challenges, and final moments with my beloved pet. If your dog shows signs of Cushing's disease, consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember to cherish every moment with your furry friends.
The symptoms she had and what to look out for are as follows...
Potbelly. The swelling of the belly.
Massive increase in appetite
Massive increase in drinking water
Panting very heavily
Needing a wee more
Cushing's disease is a specific form of Cushing's syndrome caused by a pituitary adenoma, which is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor of the pituitary gland. This tumor secretes an excess amount of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol. Here is a detailed overview:
Causes and Pathophysiology
Pituitary Adenoma: The primary cause of Cushing's disease is a pituitary adenoma. This small tumor in the pituitary gland produces excess ACTH.
Cortisol Overproduction: The overproduction of ACTH leads to the adrenal glands producing too much cortisol, a hormone involved in stress response, metabolism, and immune function.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Cushing's disease are due to prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol and may include:
Weight Gain: Particularly around the abdomen and face (leading to a characteristic "moon face") and between the shoulders (leading to a "buffalo hump").
Skin Changes: Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, and purple or red stretch marks (striae) on the abdomen, thighs, breasts, and arms.
Muscle and Bone Changes: Muscle weakness, osteoporosis (bone thinning), and fractures.
Metabolic Changes: Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and diabetes.
Psychological Symptoms: Depression, anxiety, irritability, and cognitive difficulties.
Reproductive Changes: Irregular menstrual periods in women and decreased fertility and libido in both men and women.
Cardiovascular Issues: Hypertension (high blood pressure) and increased risk of heart disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Cushing's disease involves several steps:
Clinical Evaluation: Assessing symptoms and medical history.
Laboratory Tests:
24-hour Urinary Free Cortisol Test: Measures cortisol levels in urine collected over 24 hours.
Late-night Salivary Cortisol Test: Measures cortisol levels in a saliva sample taken late at night.
Low-dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test: Measures how cortisol levels respond to dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid.
Imaging: MRI or CT scans to detect the presence of a pituitary adenoma.
Surgery: The primary treatment is transsphenoidal surgery to remove the pituitary tumor.
Medications: If surgery is not an option or is not fully successful, medications like ketoconazole, metyrapone, or mitotane may be used to control cortisol production.
Radiation Therapy: May be used if surgery and medication are not effective.
Adrenalectomy: In rare cases, removal of the adrenal glands may be necessary, followed by lifelong hormone replacement therapy.
Complications
If left untreated, Cushing's disease can lead to severe complications, including:
Cardiovascular Disease: Due to prolonged high blood pressure and metabolic disturbances.
Infections: Increased susceptibility to infections due to immune suppression.
Psychological Issues: Persistent mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and minimizing the risk of complications. If you suspect you have symptoms of Cushing's disease, consulting an endocrinologist for evaluation and management is essential.
This video is about Cushing's Disease In Dogs: Lula's Story - Our Emotional Farewell. But It also covers the following topics:
Cushing's Disease Treatment
Dog Euthanasia Process
Saying Goodbye To A Pet
Video Title: Cushing's Disease In Dogs: Lula's Story - Our Emotional Farewell | OperationFeelFit.com
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