This can happen when the levels of cortisol in your body fall significantly.Īn adrenal crisis is a medical emergency. People with Addison's disease must be constantly aware of the risk of a sudden worsening of symptoms, called an adrenal crisis. Most people with the condition have a normal lifespan and are able to live an active life with few limitations.īut 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 (hypothyroidism).

With treatment, symptoms of Addison's disease can largely be controlled. You'll need to take it for the rest of your life.

Treating Addison's diseaseĪddison's disease is treated with medicine 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% to 90% of cases in the UK. Why it happensĪddison's disease 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 the steroid hormones aldosterone and cortisol. You may also develop small areas of darkened skin, or darkened lips or gums.Īlthough these symptoms are not always caused by Addison's disease, you should see a 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.

loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss.

Symptoms of Addison's diseaseĮarly-stage symptoms of Addison's disease are similar to other more common health conditions, such as clinical depression or flu.

It can affect people of any age, although it's most common between the ages of 30 and 50. It's also more common in women than men.

The adrenal gland is damaged in Addison's disease, so it does not produce enough cortisol or aldosterone.Ībout 9,000 people in the UK have Addison's disease, with over 300 new cases diagnosed each year. They produce 2 essential hormones: cortisol and aldosterone. The adrenal glands are 2 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.

Cortex of adrenal gland