Addison’s disease is defined as adrenal insufficiency and also known as hypoadrenalism, it is rare and serious disorder of adrenal gland. Due to adrenal cortex impairment, adrenal glands unable to release cortisol and aldosterone (hormones which are essential for normal body functions). Addison’s disease grows gradually, sometimes develop after years.

What causes Addison’s disease?
It is caused due to damage of immune system.

Type of Addison’s Disease:
Primary :
Sever damage to adrenal gland which makes them unable to produce hormones. It occurs when adrenal glands get attacked by immune system.

Secondary :
When pituitary gland fails to produce adrenocorticotropic homones because this hormones direct adrenal glands to release hormones.

Who are at risk of Addison’s Disease?
Infections in body
Cancer
Adrenal gland surgery
Autoimmune disease
Excess intake of blood thinner

What are the symptoms of Addison’s Disease?
fatigue
Mouth soreness
weight loss
diminished appetite
weakness in muscles
Skin color darkening
tiredness
Low heart rate
Salty cravings
Vomiting
nausea
blood sugar – low
Blood pressure – low
Fever – high
Depression
Impaired sleep
irritability
delirium
Backache
Body pain
visual hallucinations
auditory hallucinations
confusion
restlessness

How to diagnose Addison’s Disease?
Blood tests
ACTH stimulation test
X-rays
CT scan