Definition:
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Cushing's Disease, or Hyperadrenocorticism, is the production of an excess of adrenal hormone, or, more particularly, corticosteroids. Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease is caused by the frequent use of cortisol. The excess amount of cortisol tells the adrenal glands that they can halt production of cortisol in the body, which causes them to decrease in size.
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Drastic increase in thirst
Increase in appetite
"Pot belly" due to the enlarging of the liver
Weakened abdomen muscles
Hair loss (without itchiness)
Lethargy
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The treatment for Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease is a slow withdrawal of cortisol. A dramatic decrease in cortisol before the adrenal glands have recovered can result in severe consequences, like vomiting, diarrhea, or vascular collapse, even death.
