Addison Disease

How do I know if I have Addison Disease?

What signs or symptoms may make you suspect you may have Addison Disease. People who have experience in Addison Disease offer advice of what things may make you suspicious and which doctor you should go to to receive treatment

How do I know if I have Addison's Disease?

Addison's Disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare but serious condition that occurs when your adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. These hormones are essential for maintaining various bodily functions, including managing stress, regulating blood pressure, and balancing electrolytes.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Addison's Disease is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. Here are some key indicators to look out for:

Extreme fatigue and weakness: Addison's Disease often causes severe tiredness and a general feeling of weakness, even with sufficient rest.

Weight loss and decreased appetite: Unintentional weight loss and loss of appetite can be common symptoms of adrenal insufficiency.

Darkening of the skin: Hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin, is a distinctive characteristic of Addison's Disease. It typically occurs in areas exposed to the sun, as well as on scars and pressure points.

Low blood pressure: A drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up, can be a sign of adrenal insufficiency.

Dizziness or fainting: Due to low blood pressure, individuals with Addison's Disease may experience dizziness or even fainting spells.

Craving for salty foods: Adrenal insufficiency can disrupt the balance of electrolytes in your body, leading to a craving for salty foods.

Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain: These gastrointestinal symptoms can occur in individuals with Addison's Disease.

Muscle or joint pains: Chronic muscle or joint pains may be present in some cases.

Irritability and depression: Mood changes, irritability, and depression can be associated with adrenal insufficiency.

If you are experiencing several of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. Addison's Disease can be diagnosed through various tests, including blood tests to measure cortisol and aldosterone levels, as well as an ACTH stimulation test to assess adrenal gland function.

It is worth noting that the symptoms of Addison's Disease can be vague and non-specific, resembling other medical conditions. Therefore, a thorough medical examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Early detection and treatment of Addison's Disease are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications. With appropriate medical care, individuals with Addison's Disease can lead normal and fulfilling lives. Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy to restore cortisol and aldosterone levels in the body.

by Diseasemaps

See a comprehensive symptoms list & if suspected, contact GP immediately. If experiencing severe symptoms report to an emergency doctor.

5/30/17 by Lucienne 800

Symptoms Addison's disease symptoms usually develop slowly, often over several months, and may include: Extreme fatigue Weight loss and decreased appetite Darkening of your skin (hyperpigmentation) Low blood pressure, even fainting Salt craving Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) Nausea, diarrhea or vomiting Abdominal pain Muscle or joint pains Irritability Depression Body hair loss or sexual dysfunction in women Acute adrenal failure (addisonian crisis) Sometimes, however, the signs and symptoms of Addison's disease may appear suddenly. In acute adrenal failure (addisonian crisis), the signs and symptoms may also include: Pain in your lower back, abdomen or legs Severe vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration Low blood pressure Loss of consciousness High potassium (hyperkalemia) and low sodium (hyponatremia) When to see a doctor See your doctor if you have signs and symptoms that commonly occur in people with Addison's disease, such as: Darkening areas of skin (hyperpigmentation) Severe fatigue Unintentional weight loss Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain Lightheadedness or fainting Salt cravings Muscle or joint pains Your doctor can help determine whether Addison's disease or some other medical condition may be causing these problems.

9/12/17 by Tina 2050

You will know if you experience symptoms

2/16/19 by Edward 1400

Dark pigment on knuckles inside mouth knees elbows scar tissue etc Fatigue lack of concentration low blood pressure (dizzy on standing/fainting) Vomiting and diarrhea sudden weight loss

1/14/23 by S 2350

Translated from spanish Improve translation

The more obvious symptoms are loss of appetite, and fatigue, comprehensive. Vomiting, abdominal pain, discoloration, specks, dark on the lips, tongue...

10/18/17 by Susana. Translated

Translated from spanish Improve translation

Vomiting, dehydration, cramps and you have to go to the endocrine

10/18/17 by . Translated

Translated from spanish Improve translation

gums stained low weight nausea coloration of the skin inapetito drowsiness

10/31/17 by Dayana. Translated

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