When men and women experience a hormonal imbalance, distressing symptoms like lowered sex drive, intellectual fogginess, moodiness, sleeping disorders, night sweats, weight gain, headaches, and extreme irritability can occur. These problems can be symptomatic of deficiencies in estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone and all can be helped with natural hormone replacement therapy.

Natural hormone replacement therapy works in harmony with our systems because it uses bio-identical hormones; hormones that are found naturally in plants and flowers, and have molecular structures identical to the hormones produced by our bodies. for example, natural progesterone is derived from yams and soybeans. This particular medication is usually formulated in a cream that is applied to the skin. it does wonders for some of the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. in this formula, progesterone is available over the counter – no prescription is necessary. it is interesting to note that progesterone has been called the “mother of all hormones,” since it is also known as the precursor, or producer, of both estrogen and testosterone, as well as other hormones that the adrenal gland produces. Progesterone not only affects our libidos, but is also important in regulating essential levels in our blood, such as our glucose levels and electrolytes, for smooth heart, nerve and muscle operation. it also contributes to healthy blood pressure and stress control.

When taken in appropriate dosages, bio-identicals are no more threatening to human health than other naturally occurring substances, such as normal water. Anything taken in excess can create imbalances, so the amount of bio-identical hormones consumed or utilized should be monitored. Bio-identical hormones are most frequently prescribed for you by a doctor, and created for your unique body by a compounding pharmacist.

In 2002, a medical study found that the synthetically produced hormones being prescribed for women as HRT were actually more hazardous than beneficial. it was found that these artificial hormones were producing increased rates of breast cancer and heart disease in research participants, so prescribing such replacement therapy was abruptly discontinued in 2002. Usage of bio-identical hormones was a natural offshoot of the discontinuance of an unhealthy medical program.

Unlike many types of medications, bio-identical hormones do not commonly conflict with other prescribed drugs. in fact, the need for other prescriptions may even decrease.

Hormone replacement therapy is not necessary or even desirable for everyone. Whether natural or synthetic, humans have been functioning and aging without artificial additives to the body. However, because bio-identicals are derived from plants, it is possible that some indigenous populations have been using them for centuries.

Cushing’s disease(Hyperadrenocorticism) is a disease that I encounter regularly as a veterinarian. it usually affects dogs that are middle-aged to older but can affect a dog of any age. here is what you need to know as a dog owner…

What is Cushing’s disease?

Cushing’s is a disorder of the adrenal gland which sits on top of each kidney. the disease occurs because the adrenal gland produces an excessive amount of cortisol which is a steroid hormone that is released during stress. This occurs because there is a problem with the pituitary gland that signals the adrenal gland to release cortisol, or because there is a problem with the adrenal gland itself. the majority of cases with Cushing’s disease occur because of a pituitary gland problem. if a dog receives steroids in excessive amounts, this can also result in Cushing’s disease. Both the adrenal and pituitary form of Cushing’s disease usually occur because of a tumor. the tumor is benign in most cases but can be malignant in rare situations.

What are the symptoms of Cushing’s disease?

In the early stages, there may not be any symptoms. As the disease progresses, common symptoms include increased appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, lethargy, a distended abdomen, excessive panting, and hair loss.

What should I do if my dog is showing symptoms of Cushing’s disease?

If you suspect your dog may have Cushing’s, you should have him/her evaluated by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will likely perform an examination. Diagnostics such as blood work and urinalysis will also likely be necessary to obtain a diagnosis. if your veterinarian suspects Cushing’s after initial diagnostics have been performed, further blood testing called an ACTH stimulation test or low dose dexamethasone test will likely be needed for a definitive diagnosis and in order to identify the source of the problem (pituitary gland vs. adrenal gland).  Other imaging including abdominal ultrasound may also be necessary.

What can I do if my dog has Cushing’s disease?

If your dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s, there is medication or surgery that can help. the medication is called Lysodren. another medication called Trilostane is sometimes used. obviously, close regulation of medication using blood testing is necessary since overdoing it can cause severe problems with Addison’s disease – hypoadrenocorticism which can cause loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and weakness. Blood work will need to be monitored weekly in the beginning then eventually every 1-3 months. Once your dog’s condition is well controlled and he/she seems to tolerate the medication well, blood work every 6 months is performed. An ACTH Stimulation test and other blood work to monitor kidney function and electrolytes are usually performed to ensure your dog is on the ideal dosage of medication. A dog that has the adrenal form of Cushing’s can also benefit from surgery to remove the tumor causing the problem.

What is the prognosis if my dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s?

The average life expectancy is approximately 2 years but this an “educated guess” rather than an exact science. every dog will tolerate the disease and medication differently so lifespan will vary. the goal of therapy is to improve quality of life.

If your dog has Cushing’s disease, the advances in veterinary medicine can help your dog live as well as possible for as long as possible. has your dog been diagnosed with Cushing’s disease? We would love for you to share your experiences!

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