You know a person living with a chronic illness is giving you the REAL story when, after being asked, “What does your Cushing’s disease affect?” she (in this case the lovely and brave Marie Conley) answers “everything.”
Because chronic illnesses such as Cushing’s DO affect every aspect of your existence.
There’s not a single thing you think, say, or do that isn’t informed in some way by your condition. Everything has to be passed under the “what will my disease allow me to do” microscope.
- Will I be too fatigued, depressed, or in too much pain?
- Can I afford it AND my medications?
- My thigh muscles have wasted away and I have excess hair growth. Will people make fun of how I look?
Cushing’s affects the body’s endocrine system, which produces hormones that affect nearly everything in the body. In Cushing’s, a tumor (or tumors) on the pituitary gland (located in the brain) secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
This stimulates the adrenal glands (located on top of the kidneys) to release too much of a hormone called cortisol.
Cortisol is most well-known as the “stress hormone”—it’s a steroid hormone the body manufactures to help control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and formulate memories.
Cortisol also effects the body’s salt and water balance, which, in turn helps control blood pressure.
The high cortisol levels caused by Cushing’s result in rapid weight gain in the face, abdomen, and chest—but leave legs and arms thin. Some people with Cushing’s disease develop a hump of fat on the back of the neck, and/or purple-colored stretch marks on the belly. It can cause mood and behavior disorders, too.
So it’s a big deal when a person who has to deal with Cushing’s every day has the chutzpah and dedication to spend time spreading awareness about the disease.
She’s even put together a book about it—and the proceeds go toward Cushing’s research and support!
Watch this wonderful interview with Ms. Conley (click here), and become a fan!
