An Ayurveda Overview For Cushing Syndrome:

Causes of Cushing Syndrome

1. Exogenous Causes:
   • Long-term use of corticosteroid medications (e.g., prednisone) for conditions like asthma, arthritis, or autoimmune diseases.
2. Endogenous Causes:
   • Pituitary Adenoma: A benign tumor in the pituitary gland leading to excess adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) production.
   • Ectopic ACTH Syndrome: Non-pituitary tumors producing ACTH, such as lung or pancreatic tumors.
   • Adrenal Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in the adrenal glands that directly secrete cortisol.

Symptoms

• Physical Signs:
  • Weight gain, particularly in the upper body and face (moon face).
  • A rounded, red face.
  • A fatty hump between the shoulders (buffalo hump).
  • Thin skin that bruises easily.
  • Purple or pink stretch marks (striae) on the abdomen, thighs, or arms.

• Other Symptoms:
  • High blood pressure.
  • High blood sugar (diabetes-like symptoms).
  • Muscle weakness.
  • Depression, anxiety, or irritability.
  • Fatigue and difficulty sleeping.
  • Irregular or absent menstrual periods in women.

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Diagnosis

• Lab Tests:
  • 24-hour urinary free cortisol test.
  • Late-night salivary cortisol levels.
  • Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test.
• Imaging Studies:
  • MRI or CT scans to identify tumors in the pituitary or adrenal glands.

Conventional Treatment

• Medications to reduce cortisol production.
• Surgery to remove tumors.
• Radiation therapy in cases of pituitary tumors.
• Gradual tapering of corticosteroids if the condition is drug-induced.

Ayurveda and Cushing Syndrome

In Ayurveda, Cushing syndrome can be correlated to the imbalance of Tridoshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—along with the disruption of endocrine system functioning. Ayurveda aims to restore balance through holistic treatments that include herbal remedies, detoxification, dietary regulation, and lifestyle changes.

Ayurvedic Contributions to Cushing Syndrome Management

1. Herbal Remedies:
   • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Helps in stress reduction, regulating cortisol levels, and improving adrenal health.
   • Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Supports mental clarity, reduces anxiety, and balances hormone production.
   • Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Enhances immunity, detoxifies the body, and balances cortisol levels.
   • Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): Helps in reducing edema and water retention, commonly seen in Cushing syndrome.
2. Detoxification Therapies (Panchakarma):
   • Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Cleanses excess Pitta and toxins from the body.
   • Basti (Enema Therapy): Supports adrenal health and balances Vata dosha.
   • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Improves blood circulation, strengthens muscles, and reduces stress.

1. Dietary Guidelines:
   • Include fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains.
   • Avoid processed foods, excess salt, and sugar to manage blood pressure and weight.
   • Use cooling and anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, coriander, and fennel.
2. Lifestyle Modifications:
   • Practice Yoga and Pranayama (breathing exercises) to reduce stress and support adrenal function.
   • Establish a consistent sleep routine to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm.
3. Rasayana Therapy:
   • Focus on rejuvenation and improving overall vitality using tonics like Chyawanprash and Ayurvedic formulations such as Dashamoola and Shatavari Kalpa.