Conditions Linked to Cushing's disease
Cushing's disease doesn't occur in isolation. Dogs with Cushing's are at higher risk of developing several other serious health conditions. Understanding these connections - how they develop, what treatment options exist, and how to manage them - can help you spot warning signs early and work with your vet to protect your dog's health.
Always contact your vet urgently if you notice:
- • Sudden blindness – possibly systemic hypertension (high blood pressure)
- • Vomiting or diarrhoea – possibly addisonian crisis or pancreatitis
- • Loss of appetite – possibly gallbladder mucocele, pancreatitis, or addisonian crisis
- • Signs of pain or distress – possibly pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain) or gallbladder mucocele (or rupture)
- • Yellowing of skin, gums, or eyes – possibly a sign of liver or biliary system failure (often due to a gallbladder mucocele)
- • Difficulty breathing – possibly thromboembolism (blood clots in lungs)
- • Collapse or extreme weakness – possibly addisonian crisis (iatrogenic hypoadrenocorticism)
- • Any new or worsening symptoms – possibly a complication (like infection or diabetes) is worsening
- • Sudden changes in behaviour or energy – possibly addisonian crisis or neurological issues
The Importance of a Baseline Abdominal Ultrasound
Many serious complications of Cushing's disease develop silently, without any outward symptoms. One of the first steps after diagnosis should be a full abdominal ultrasound by a specialist.
A comprehensive ultrasound examination can provide clinically relevant information about key organs such as:
- • Liver
- • Cholecyst (gallbladder)
- • Adrenal glands
- • Kidneys
- • Urinary bladder
- • Spleen
Ongoing monitoring: After the baseline ultrasound, your vet may recommend repeat ultrasounds every 6-12 months (or more frequently if abnormalities were found) to monitor for changes and catch complications early.
Related Conditions
Remember
Understanding these related conditions empowers you to be an advocate for your dog's health. Regular veterinary monitoring, baseline ultrasounds, and awareness of warning signs can catch complications early when they're most treatable. Work closely with your vet to create a comprehensive monitoring plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.