Metabolism is a body process in which energy is acquired from ingested food. Chemicals in the body break food down into sugars and acids, which provide energy to the body. This energy may be used immediately or stored in the body for later use, according to Medline Plus. Metabolic diseases cause abnormal chemical reactions that interfere with normal metabolism.
Addison's Disease
The adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys, are a part of the endocrine system that provide hormones that are essential to normal body metabolism. The glands are made up of two sections, the medulla and the cortex. The cortex is responsible for making the hormones cortisol and aldosterone. Addison’s disease is a disease in which the adrenal glands are damaged and produce insufficient amounts of cortisol and aldosterone. Symptoms of Addison’s disease include muscle weakness, fatigue, weight loss, darkening of the skin, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, muscle pain, irritability and nausea, according to Mayo Clinic. These symptoms usually develop gradually and may not be apparent for months. Treatment for Addison’s disease consists of hormone replacement therapy. Hormones are usually given orally, but if nausea is severe, may be injected.
Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or autoimmune thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. The inflammation causes damage to the thyroid gland, which results in reduced production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones are important factors in normal metabolism as well as breathing, heart rate, nervous system function and body temperature regulation, according to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service. Initially, those with Hashimoto’s disease experience no symptoms. As the inflammation of the thyroid gland increases, it causes a bulging area in the front of the neck, called goiter. Other symptoms associated with Hashimoto’s disease include fatigue, weight gain, joint and muscle pain, constipation, thinning hair and slowed heart rate. Treatment of the disease consists of administration of a synthetic thyroid hormone.
Cushing's Disease
The pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain, is a part of the endocrine system that releases a hormone called adrenocorticotropic hormone, or ATCH. ATCH is responsible for stimulating the release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. Cushing’s disease is a condition in which a tumor or growth on the pituitary gland causes it too release excess amounts of ATCH, which in turn causes an excess production and release of cortisol. Symptoms of Cushing’s disease include upper body obesity, round face, acne or skin infections, easy bruising, backache, bone pain, weak muscles, fatigue, headache and high blood pressure, according to Medline Plus. Treatment for Cushing’s disease consists of surgery to remove the growth on the pituitary gland. The removal of the growth usually results in normal pituitary function. During recovery, cortisol replacement may be necessary.
