Cushing's Disease & Exercise

Cushing's disease is a challenging condition that may significantly impact an individual's quality of life. The disease is a result of a hormone imbalance that can have serious effects on both mental and physical states, including mood, weight maintenance and cognitive functions. For some sufferers, exercise may be a successful treatment method.

Cushing's Disease

Cushing's disease is caused when the body produces excessive amounts of cortisol. This can be because of a tumor, genetics or treatment of another condition that requires the use of corticosteroid medications that increase the body's production of cortisol. Increased levels of cortisol can cause a plethora of symptoms that wreak havoc on the entire body.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Cushing's disease can be very taxing on the mind and body. If left untreated, excessive cortisol levels can alter your physical appearance, resulting in pronounced weight gain and fat deposits around the face, neck and abdomen. Skin discoloration, thinning skin and acne may also occur. The mental effects can be significant as well and may include decreased energy levels, depression, anxiety or erratic mood swings. Increased cortisol levels tend to raise blood pressure, impair glucose function, induce headaches and contribute to reduced bone density. Fortunately, Cushing's is treatable, and the options depend on the cause of the disease.

The Impact of Exercise

According to decades of studies like those published in the "European Journal of Endocrinology" and the "The New England Journal of Medicine," exercise has been proven to be an effective treatment for managing high cortisol levels. Not only does exercise aid in weight loss and maintenance, but it also improves the secretion of "feel good" hormones and increases the effectiveness of insulin. Individuals who are recovering from Cushing's syndrome, either after an operation or following prolonged corticosteroid use, should increase activity slowly, the Mayo Clinic says. Add one or two days a week of light exercise at first, and slowly build up to a longer, more intense routine.

Diet and Exercise

Although the symptoms of Cushing's disease can make it very difficult to stay motivated and participate in physical activity, exercise can be a vital tool in treatment and recovery. Proof lies in a 1997 study published in the "Journal of Pediatrics and Child Health," which describes a case of familial Cushing's disease. A boy diagnosed at age 7 was followed for 19 years and successfully achieved weight loss through diet and exercise, despite chronic increased serum cortisol. In 2008, a study in "Clinical Physiology," revealed that prolonged, low-intensity exercise can influence blood-glucose levels and lower cortisol. Consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet and physical activity.

Cushing's Disease & Exercise