Addison’s Disease

Addison’s disease occurs in all ages, and is an hormonal disorder. It happens when there is not enough of the hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal gland which results in weight loss, low blood pressure, fatigue and other symptoms.

Causes of Addison’s Disease

The failure to produce cortisol can occur for many reasons. This could be a disorder of the adrenal glands, or the failure to produce a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands, called adrenocorticotropin (or ACTH).

Most cases of the disease are caused by destruction by the body’s own immune system of the outer layer of the adrenal glands. This can also affect other glands, leading to polyendocrine deficiency syndrome. Tuberculosis is the reason for around 20% of cases of Addison’s disease, though this is less likely as the treatment for tuberculosis has improved.

When the disease is due to a lack of ACTH this can be caused by a number of factors, including surgical removal of the pituitary gland (the gland that produces ACTH), loss of blood flow to the gland, infections, tumors or radiation treatment for tumors.

Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

The symptoms are usually gradual and may start with fatigue, loss of appetite or weight loss and can also include nausea, dizziness, fainting and changes in skin color. Stressful events may cause the symptoms to become worse, and for some patients symptoms will show after an addisonian crisis. This can be fatal if left untreated and can include diarrhea, severe vomiting, loss or consciousness and low blood pressure.

Treatment of Addison’s Disease

The hormones will either be replaced or substituted using tablets or other oral doses. Patients may also need to increase their salt intake. Treatment for an addisonian crisis will involve several factors including saline water, sugar and injections of hydrocortisone. Pregnant women who have sickness and vomiting due to their pregnancy may need to be injected with hormones.