Addison’s Disease

Addison’s Disease

Addison’s Disease also known as is a disorder that comes from insufficient amounts of hormones produced by the adrenal gland

The adrenal gland produces and insufficient amount of Cortisol which is also known as the “stress hormone” and aldosterone which regulates the amount of electrolytes in the body.

Cause

Damage to the cortex, which is the outer layer of the adrenal gland.

Tumors, blood-thinning drugs, could cause damage to the adrenal gland.

caused by infections including tuberculosis, HIV, or fungal infectio

Signs and Symptoms

usually begin gradually getting worse chronic worsening fatigue muscle weakness less of appetite weight loss low blood pressure Fainting skin changes- usually darkening

Diagnostic Procedures

difficult to diagnose doctors will look up past medical history that is

based on skin changes, which include dark tanning

lab testing to determine the amount of cortisol being produced by the adrenal gland.

X-Ray exam of the adrenal gland.

Treatment

taking hormones that the adrenal gland is not producing enough of

hydrocortisone for replacing cortisol

fludrocortisone acetate for replacing alsoterone

injections of saltwater and sugar.

Prognosis

If the patient is being treated, most likely they will be able to lead a normal life.

If the patient does not do any form of treatment Addison’s Disease can often lead to death.

Complications may occur if the patient is taking too much or too little of an adrenal hormone supplement

Prevention

Usually there is nothing a person can do to prevent this disease. People with other infections can sometimes avoid Addison’s disease if they catch it early enough.

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