Addison's disease is a disorder that affects the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small glands that sit on top of the kidneys. They produce hormones that help the body respond to stress, regulate blood pressure, and keep the body's electrolyte balance.
Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough of these hormones. This can happen because of an autoimmune disorder, infection, or injury.
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms of Addison's disease may include:
-
Fatigue
-
Weight loss
-
Muscle weakness
-
Loss of appetite
-
Darkening of the skin
-
Low blood pressure
-
Fainting
-
Salt cravings
Addison's disease is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. If you think you may have Addison's disease, see your doctor.
There is no cure for Addison's disease, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. With treatment, most people with Addison's disease live normal, healthy lives.
Causes
Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone.
This can happen because of:
-
An autoimmune disorder. In about 70 percent of cases, Addison's disease is caused by an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorders occur when the body's immune system attacks healthy tissue.
-
Infection. Addison's disease can also be caused by an infection, such as tuberculosis or HIV.
-
Injury. Injury to the adrenal glands from surgery, blood loss, or a traumatic event can cause Addison's disease.
Risk factors
Factors that may increase your risk of Addison's disease include:
-
Autoimmune disorders. Having an autoimmune disorder, such as type 1 diabetes or Graves' disease, increases your risk of Addison's disease.
-
Family history. If you have a family member with Addison's disease, you're more likely to develop the condition.
-
Infections. Infections such as tuberculosis, HIV, and Epstein-Barr virus can increase your risk of Addison's disease.
-
Medications. Taking certain medications, such as steroids, can increase your risk of Addison's disease.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent Addison's disease.
Diagnosis
Addison's disease can be difficult to diagnose because the signs and symptoms may be subtle. In some cases, the condition is mistaken for another condition, such as depression.
To diagnose Addison's disease, your doctor will likely:
-
Review your medical history. Your doctor will ask about your signs and symptoms and your family's medical history.
-
Order blood tests. Blood tests can help your doctor check for low levels of adrenal hormones and high levels of ACTH.
-
Order an adrenal gland MRI. This imaging test can help your doctor check for damage to the adrenal glands.
Treatment
There is no cure for Addison's disease, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
Medications
Treatment for Addison's disease typically involves taking cortisol and aldosterone replacement hormones. You may also need to take medication to treat an underlying autoimmune disorder.
Lifestyle changes
In addition to taking medication, you can manage Addison's disease with lifestyle changes, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help your body get the nutrients it needs.
- Avoiding stress. Stress can trigger an Addisonian crisis. Avoiding stress can help you prevent a crisis.
- Getting enough rest. Getting enough rest can help your body manage stress.
Coping and support
Living with Addison's disease can be challenging. Coping with the condition may require making lifestyle changes and managing stress.
If you have Addison's disease, consider joining a support group. Connecting with others who have the condition can provide support and understanding.
Complications
If Addison's disease isn't treated, it can lead to an Addisonian crisis. An Addisonian crisis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body can't produce enough adrenal hormones.
Signs and symptoms of an Addisonian crisis may include:
-
Weakness
-
Fatigue
-
Loss of appetite
-
Nausea and vomiting
-
Diarrhea
-
Abdominal pain
-
Low blood pressure
-
Fainting
-
Dehydration
If you think you're having an Addisonian crisis, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Living with Addison's disease
Most people with Addison's disease can manage the condition with medication and lifestyle changes. With treatment, most people with Addison's disease live normal, healthy lives.
If you have Addison's disease, work with your doctor to create a treatment plan. Following your treatment plan can help you manage the condition and prevent complications.
