Addison’s disease is a rare endocrine disorder in which the adrenal glands fail to produce enough hormones. The adrenal glands are small glands located above the kidneys and produce hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. Addison’s disease leads to impairment of many functions in the body due to insufficient production of these hormones.
Causes of Addison’s Disease
Autoimmune Reactions: The most common cause is when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands.
Infections: Some infections, such as tuberculosis, can affect the adrenal glands.
Cancer: Cancer in the adrenal glands or cancer cells that have metastasized from other organs.
Damage to the Adrenal Glands: Removal or damage to the adrenal glands.
Genetic Factors: Rarely, genetic diseases can also cause Addison’s disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Addison’s disease develop slowly and may be mild at first, which can make diagnosis difficult. Symptoms may include:
General Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling tired all the time and physical weakness.
Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite: Involuntary weight loss.
Low Blood Sugar: Symptoms of hypoglycemia, dizziness and weakness.
Darkening of the Skin: Dark discoloration, especially of scars, joint folds and inside the mouth.
Low Blood Pressure: Hypotension and dizziness, feeling faint.
Salt Cravings: Increased desire to consume salt.
Stomach Problems: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Muscle and Joint Pain: Muscle cramps and joint pain.
Depression and Irritability: Mood changes, depression and irritability.
Diagnosis.
Addison’s disease is diagnosed with various tests:
Blood tests: To measure cortisol and aldosterone levels.
ACTH Stimulation Test: To assess the capacity of the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
Electrolyte Tests: To check sodium and potassium levels.
CT or MRI: Imaging of the adrenal glands.
Treatment
Treatment of Addison’s disease aims to replace the missing hormones:
Corticosteroid drugs: Drugs such as hydrocortisone, prednisone or cortisone acetate are used to replace cortisol.
Aldosterone Substitution: To replace mineralocorticoid hormones such as fludrocortisone acetate.
Salt Supplementation: May be necessary, especially during intense exercise or hot weather.
Regular Monitoring: Regular checking of hormone levels and adjustment of the treatment plan.
Emergency Situations: Addison’s Crisis
Addisonian crisis, also known as acute adrenal insufficiency, can be life-threatening. Symptoms in this condition include:
Severe Low Blood Pressure
Severe Dehydration
Loss of Consciousness
Severe Abdominal, Back and Leg Pain
Fast and Deep Breathing
Addison’s crisis requires urgent medical attention and is usually treated with intravenous corticosteroids and fluids.
Conclusion
Addison’s disease is a manageable condition with the right diagnosis and treatment. It is important that patients see their doctor regularly and strictly adhere to their treatment plan. In addition, factors that increase the risk of adrenal crisis, such as stressful situations and infections, should be avoided or prepared for.