The adrenal glands are endocrine organs resting above the kidneys. Adrenal insufficiency is a decrease in output of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone, according to Merck.com. The site says the cause of the disorder can be attributed to either primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Primary adrenal insufficiency is known as Addison's disease, caused by malfunctioning adrenal glands. The secondary type is due to a problem with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, says Merck.com.
Features
The vital hormone cortisol is necessary for the body's adaptation to stress. It's needed for the maintenance of blood pressure, blood sugar, regulation of metabolism and for immune system function, according to The national Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Aldosterone is needed for blood pressure and blood volume regulation, and influences levels of sodium and potassium in the body, Merck.com says. Approximately four people in 100,000 have primary adrenal insufficiency, and although auto-immunity likely plays a role, the cause is unknown in about 70 percent of U.S. cases, Merck.com says.
Most Common Symptoms
Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency develop slowly, with worsening muscle weakness, chronic fatigue and reduced appetite, reports the NIDDK. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cold intolerance and a sluggish metabolism often occur, according to Merck.com. Additionally, Addison's disease, but not secondary adrenal insufficiency, causes areas of increased pigmentation in the skin, especially in skin folds and in scar tissue.
Additional Symptoms
Weight loss, dehydration and low blood pressure present later in the course of the disease, reports Merck.com. Dizziness, fainting, irritability, depression, low blood sugar, headache, sweating and menstrual irregularities may occur, says the NIDDK. Aldosterone regulates electrolyte and water balance in the body. Because low aldosterone leads to loss of sodium in the urine, patients often develop salt cravings, according to the NIDDK.
Adrenal Crisis
Because symptoms created by low adrenal hormone levels tend to come on gradually, many people are unaware of or ignore early signs of illness. The disease may slowly progress to a full-blown adrenal crisis, or a crisis can appear suddenly after physical trauma or a stressful illness, according to endocrineweb.com An adrenal crisis--also known as acute adrenal insufficiency or Addisonian crisis--is a life-threatening condition. Its symptoms are low blood pressure; low blood sugar; sharp pains in the back, abdomen and legs; and nausea and vomiting, says endocrineweb.com. Without treatment, an adrenal crisis leads to circulatory collapse and death, according to Merck.com.
