1. When Adrenal Glands Get Sick
All of our bodies produce hormones. Hormone production and release is part of the endocrine system. Some of this production is performed by the adrenal glands, two small glands located just above your kidneys that make hormones to regulate blood pressure and balance water and salt in our bodies. Addison's disease is a disorder of the autoimmune system that results in the adrenal glands not producing one particular hormone of the adrenal glands, cortisol. This is why Addison's disease is often referred to as hypocortisolism.
2. More Than Just Feeling Tired
When you suffer from Addison's disease, one of the most notable symptoms is fatigue. However, there are other symptoms that, when added to feeling tired and weak, may indicate this disease. Other common symptoms include muscle weakness, headaches, weight loss, low blood pressure (that can go low enough to induce fainting), low blood sugar and even the craving of salt, as those with Addison's disease will have a low balance of salt in their blood. Hyperpigmentation of the skin, irritability, depression and pain in the lower back or abdomen are also signs of Addison's disease.
3. You Don't Get It By Shaking Hands With Someone Named Addison
The main cause of Addison's disease is the result of an autoimmune disease, wherein the body attacks itself, damaging the adrenal glands. The outer layer of the glands, which produces cortisol and other hormones, is viewed as a foreign body and attacked. This is called primary adrenal insufficiency. Secondary adrenal insufficiency can occur if you have a diseased pituitary gland, and this can also result in adrenal gland failure. Cancer, chronic infections and removal of the adrenal glands can all cause Addison's disease as well.
4. Getting the News You Don't Want to Hear
The only way to know for sure you have Addison's disease is to get proper medical testing. Chances are good you don't have it; Addison's disease affects only one out of every 100,000 people. A blood test to measure your levels of cortisol and sodium will be conducted, as well as one that will check levels of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), low levels of which can indicate a problem with the pituitary gland. An ACTH stimulation test and hypoglycemia test may also be carried out if the pituitary gland is suspected. A CT scan of the adrenal glands will also show any visible abnormalities.
5. Fighting the Good Fight
As Addison's disease can be potentially life-threatening, treatment must be administered as soon as the diagnosis is made. Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone or hydrocortisone are usually the initial treatment. Cortisol shots might be given to those who are in more serious condition. Fludrocortisone to balance sodium and potassium levels and keep blood pressure stable is also taken. Hydrocortisone, saline and sugar are administered intravenously when blood pressure and sugar levels are dangerously low.
