Symptoms of Addison’s disease usually appear slowly and can be difficult to diagnose. However, early diagnosis and treatment of this condition is vital. Awareness of this disease can ensure the best possible outcomes through early diagnosis and effective treatment. Individuals with Addison’s disease can continue to live a healthy life with lifestyle changes and regular health check-ups. Raising public awareness about this rare disease, supporting patients and facilitating their access to treatments can improve the quality of life of individuals coping with Addison’s disease.
What is Addison’s disease?
Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce enough cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Cortisol: In response to stress, your body produces cortisol. It regulates the function of the immune system, blood sugar levels and blood pressure. Aldosterone is a hormone that regulates the sodium and potassium levels of the kidneys. Addison’s disease is a rare disease, occurring in about 1 in every 100,000 people in the United States. The causes of Addison’s disease are as follows:
- autoimmune diseases
- Tuberculosis, HIV, AIDS and some fungal infections
- Cancer
- Some drugs. These medications can damage the adrenal glands, leading to Addison’s disease.
What are the symptoms of Addison’s disease?
Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder in which the adrenal glands produce insufficient cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Symptoms usually appear slowly and may worsen over time. Symptoms of Addison’s disease are as follows:
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- muscle weakness
- weight loss
- Hair loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Darkening of the skin
- Hypotension
- High potassium levels
- low blood sugar levels
How is Addison’s disease treated?
Addison’s disease is a condition that occurs due to insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production by the adrenal glands. The main purpose of the treatment is to balance the hormone levels in the body and enable the patient to lead a normal daily life. Treatment usually includes lifelong hormone replacement therapy. Some methods for treating Addison’s disease are listed as follows:
- The main treatment for Addison’s disease is hormone replacement therapy to replace the missing cortisol and aldosterone hormones. This usually includes oral corticosteroid medications and aldosterone supplements. Drug doses may be increased, especially in situations such as stressful situations, diseases or trauma.
- Due to the lack of aldosterone, the salt and water balance in the body may be disrupted. To balance this situation, doctors may recommend salt supplements.
- Addison’s patients may need special strategies to increase their ability to cope with stressful situations.
- Cortisol doses may be increased, especially during stressful events.
Addison’s disease treatment requires constant monitoring. Patients should be monitored regularly with blood tests and other medical check-ups. It is important for Addison’s patients to have an emergency card or bracelet they carry to notify medical professionals in case of emergency.
Is Addison’s disease dangerous?
Addison’s disease is a condition that can usually be controlled when treated. However, if left untreated or inadequately treated, Addison’s disease can be potentially life-threatening. This situation can lead to serious balance problems in the body due to insufficient hormone production by the adrenal glands. “What happens if Addison’s disease is left untreated?” In answer to the question, we can list the following situations:
- adrenal crises
- low blood pressure
- hypoglycemia
- electrolyte imbalances
- Tanning and skin problems
