DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a androgenous hormone produced in the body and released by the adrenal glands. DHEA acts as a precursor to the sex hormones androgens and estrogen. Addison's disease is a type of adrenal insufficiency that occurs when your adrenal glands produce insufficient amounts of hormones. Addison's disease is often associated with low levels of DHEA in the body.
Physiology
Your adrenal glands, which are located directly above the kidneys, contain two sections. The inner section, called the medulla, produces hormones that mimic the actions of adrenaline. The outer section, called the cortex, produces a group of hormones called corticosteroids. This group of hormones includes glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids and androgens. Androgens are classified as male sex hormones, although they are produced in both men and women. These hormones allow the development of sexual characteristics and play a role in muscle mass and libido.
Addison's Disease
Addison's disease is also referred to as primary adrenal gland insufficiency. This type of adrenal gland insufficiency occurs when the cortex is physically damaged and can no longer produce sufficient amounts of the adrenal hormones. The damage to the cortex usually occurs as a result of an autoimmune disease that triggers the body to attack itself. Addison's disease may also occur as a result of adrenal gland infections, cancer of the adrenal glands and tuberculosis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Addison's disease usually develop gradually and may take months to become physically apparent. The most common symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, decreased appetite, low blood pressure, craving for salt, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, low blood sugar, muscle pain, irritability and depression. Some people may also develop hyperpigmentation, or a darkening of the skin.
Treatment
Treatment for Addison's disease involves hormone replacement therapy to replace the hormones that the adrenal cortex can no longer produce. Treatment for Addison's disease characterized by decreased production of DHEA consists of oral supplementation with prescription DHEA. DHEA is available as capsules, tablets or injections. Specific dosage depends in the individual case, but dosage usually ranges from 25 to 200 mg per day. Oral supplementation of DHEA may cause various side effects, including fatigue, headache, acne and nasal congestion. Women often experience abnormal periods, headache, insomnia and emotional changes. If you have diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders or any other hormonal disorders, you should use caution when taking DHEA.
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