If you or someone you know has Addison’s disease and is experiencing severe symptoms, dial 999 for an ambulance. This can happen when the levels of cortisol in your body fall significantly due to not taking your medicines, or during another illness.Īn adrenal crisis is a medical emergency and warning signs include severe nausea, confusion, fever, headache and weakness. People with Addison's disease must be aware of the risk of a sudden worsening of symptoms, called an adrenal crisis. However, many people with Addison's disease also find they must learn to manage bouts of fatigue and there may be associated health conditions, such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid. Most people with the condition live a normal lifespan and are able to live an active life, with few limitations. With treatment, symptoms of Addison's disease can largely be controlled. You'll need to take the medication for the rest of your life. Read more about the causes of Addison’s disease Treating Addison's diseaseĪddison’s disease is treated with medication to replace the missing hormones. Other potential causes include conditions that can damage the adrenal glands, such as tuberculosis (TB), although this is uncommon in the UK. It's not clear why this happens, but it's responsible for 70-90% of cases in the UK. The condition is usually the result of a problem with the immune system, which causes it to attack the outer layer of the adrenal gland (the adrenal cortex), disrupting the production of steroid hormones aldosterone and cortisol. Read more about the symptoms of Addison’s disease and diagnosing Addison’s disease Why it happens You may also develop small areas of darkened skin, or darkened lips or gums.Īlthough these symptoms aren’t always caused by Addison’s disease, you should see your GP, so they can be investigated. Over time, these problems may become more severe and you may experience further symptoms, such as dizziness, fainting, cramps and exhaustion.
In Addison's disease, the adrenal gland is damaged, and not enough cortisol and aldosterone are produced.Ībout 8,400 people in the UK have Addison's disease. They produce essential hormones: cortisol, aldosterone and adrenaline. The adrenal glands are two small glands that sit on top of the kidneys. Addison’s disease (also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism) is a rare disorder of the adrenal glands.
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