Small and triangular in shape, the adrenal glands sit on top of both kidneys and are approximately half an inch in height and three inches in length, according to UrologyHealth.org. They have an outer region, termed the adrenal cortex, and an inner region, termed the adrenal medulla. The adrenal glands release three different classes of hormones, which all play an important role in maintaining normal body function, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Mechanism
The adrenal medulla secretes adrenaline, a hormone that affects blood pressure, heart rate and sweating. The adrenal cortex secretes corticosteroids that control the usage of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in the body. The adrenal cortex is also responsible for secreting mineralocorticoids, which control salt and potassium levels in the body. All released hormones from the adrenal glands play a part in controlling the "fight or flight" response to stress, maintaining pregnancy, and initiating and controlling sexual maturation during childhood and adulthood, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Improper Adrenal Function
Improper adrenal function can result from either the gland itself or from something outside the gland, according to UrologyHealth.org. For instance, the adrenal glands work in unison with the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, located within the brain. If the hypothalamus or pituitary glands fail to produce hormones that make the adrenal glands function, the adrenal glands do not work properly, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, the problem could reside within the adrenal gland itself from either a disease or infection in or around the gland. Major problems commonly result from the adrenal glands producing too many or too few hormones, according to UrologyHealth.org.
Reduced Corticosteroid Production
When the adrenal glands secrete a reduced amount of corticosteroids, it causes many health repercussions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. First, a lack of corticosteroids elevates the amount of sodium within the body, causing it to retain potassium. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that increased sodium with potassium retention in the body can cause people to become dehydrated. Also, a reduced amount of corticosteroids over time can lead to infections, diseases and disorders, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Addison's Disease & Fatigue
Addison's disease develops from an underactive adrenal gland, which produces an insufficient amount of corticosteroid hormones, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Addison's disease affects approximately four in every 100,000 people. The exact cause is unknown, but roughly one-third of Addison's disease patients develop it from destruction of the adrenal gland due to cancer, infection, or other diseases. The most common symptom of Addison's disease is fatigue, with other symptoms including weakness, dizziness, dark skin, weight loss, dehydration, lack of appetite, and muscle aches.
Addison's Disease Treatment
Treatment for Addison's disease involves hormone replacement therapy to establish the correct amount of corticosteroid hormones the body should release, according to the MayoClinic.com. Treatment options include oral corticosteroids, corticosteroid injections, and androgen replacement therapy. People with Addison's disease are also recommended to consume sodium, especially during heavy exercise, hot weather, and gastrointestinal upsets, according to MayoClinic.com.
