The adrenal glands, two small organs located on top of each kidney, produce hormones that are vital to many functions throughout the body. The adrenals have two main parts: the cortex (outer portion) which produces vital hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone; and the medulla (inner portion) where the stress hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine are produced. Adrenal crisis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when either damage to the adrenal gland, or damage to the pituitary gland that helps regulate the adrenal glands, occurs, resulting in a decrease in cortisol or aldosterone production.
Low Blood Sugar
Cortisol plays a major role in the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels, according to the University of Ottowa. Blood glucose (sugar) levels rise after eating a meal, which then triggers the pancreas to release insulin to drive the level back down. Between meals, cortisol signals the muscle proteins to break down and release amino acids, which are then converted to glucose. Cortisol can also trigger the release of glucose from fat cells. Without cortisol, the blood glucose levels can fall to dangerously low levels, known as hypoglycemia, that can lead to fainting, seizures and in extreme cases even heart attack.
Low Blood Pressure
One of the main functions of cortisol is maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function. The presence of cortisol makes blood vessels more sensitive to the stress hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine which work to constrict the vessels, thereby increasing blood pressure. With no cortisol, the blood vessels become dilated and blood pressure drops, resulting in hypotension. The dangers of low blood pressure include dizziness and fainting, and, if prolonged, organs such as the brain and heart can become oxygen deprived.
Dehydration
During adrenal crisis, aldosterone, a hormone responsible for regulating potassium and sodium levels in the blood, cells and spaces between cells, is also affected. When there is insufficient amount of aldersterone produced, sodium is removed from the blood and excreted in the urine. Sodium takes water with it, leading to dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, organs cannot function properly. Severe cases of dehydration can cause dizziness, weakness, muscle spasms and even kidney damage.
Other Dangers
Patients experiencing adrenal crisis may also have severe vomiting or diarrhea. This can contribute to and worsen dehydration.
Shock, the condition caused by decreased blood flow in the body, can result in organ and tissue damage.
Loss of consciousness can occur due to the severe dehydration, low blood sugar, low blood pressure or a combination of these symptoms.
If adrenal crisis is not treated immediately, coma or even death can result.
