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What is Addison's Disease

A rare disorders resulting from the cortex (outside part) of the adrenal glands (located at the upper end of each kidney) failing to produce hormones.

Author:Dexter Cooke
Reviewer:Stefano Mclaughlin
Apr 09, 2023
73.9K Shares
2.1M Views
A rare disorder resulting from the cortex (outside part) of the adrenal glands (located at the upper end of each kidney) failing to produce hormones. These hormones are vital to many essential bodily functions, including the breaking down and use of carbohydrates and control of body salts; maintaining adequate blood pressure and blood sugar; stress response; and healing. The adrenal glands may be damaged or destroyed by AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE (in which the immune system produces antibiotics that attack one or more of the body's own tissues), tumors, or chronic infections such as tuberculosis.

Adrenal Insufficiency

A person who is developing Addison's disease may experience:
  • Extreme weakness and fatigue.
  • Darkening of the skin of the face, often as freckles or a deepening of tan.
  • Weight loss and abdominal pain or cramps.
  • Blackouts.
  • A craving for salt.

A Symptom Of Addison's Disease

The failure of the adrenal glands may be very gradual, causing an insidious worsening over months or years of weakness, lethargy, fainting, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and darkening of the skin and mouth lining. During the course of the illness, stresses such as infection, injury, or surgery may trigger an acute episode of severe symptoms called low blood pressure extreme weakness and mental confusion that may progress to coma.
  • Listlessness, lack of energy
  • Altered bowel habit-more, longer, toilet visits
  • Altered appearance: the face looks darker, there are discolored patches.

Treatment Of Addison's Disease

Patients with Addison's Disease will have to take CORTICOSTEROID drugs for the rest of their lives. People with Addison's Disease are wanted to contact their doctor without delay at the first sign of infection or if they are injured, as they will need increased doses to help the body cope with any stress.

Diagnosis Of Addison's Disease

If Addison's Disease is suspected, blood tests will confirm reduced adrenal hormone levels and disturbed metabolism of salts and carbohydrates.

Treatment Of Addison's Disease Is With Hormone Replacement, Using Hydrocortisone.

An adrenal crisis is a life-threatening emergency. It can follow hemorrhage into both adrenal glands in severe infections. It is common in children with severe infections. The commonest cause is an abrupt withdrawal of steroids after long-term treatment of Addison's Disease.
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Dexter Cooke

Dexter Cooke

Author
Dexter Cooke is an economist, marketing strategist, and orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience crafting compelling narratives that resonate worldwide. He holds a Journalism degree from Columbia University, an Economics background from Yale University, and a medical degree with a postdoctoral fellowship in orthopedic medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dexter’s insights into media, economics, and marketing shine through his prolific contributions to respected publications and advisory roles for influential organizations. As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery and laparoscopic procedures, Dexter prioritizes patient care above all. Outside his professional pursuits, Dexter enjoys collecting vintage watches, studying ancient civilizations, learning about astronomy, and participating in charity runs.
Stefano Mclaughlin

Stefano Mclaughlin

Reviewer
Stefano Mclaughlin is a Psychologist focused on mental health, emotional well-being, and healthcare policy. He studied Psychology and Public Health at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, gaining a deep understanding of the intersection between mental health and public policy. Stefano's mission is clear: he aims to destigmatize mental health discussions, improve access to mental healthcare, and promote emotional well-being for all. Drawing from personal experiences with anxiety and depression, Stefano shares real stories to make mental health topics more relatable and less intimidating. In addition to his advocacy work, Stefano enjoys delving into books, experimenting in the kitchen, and embarking on new adventures. These hobbies fuel his creativity and inspire fresh perspectives for his advocacy work.
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