What is Adrenal Insufficiency?

Description of the disease

Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, such as cortisol and aldosterone.

Classification

• By origin: primary (problem in the adrenal glands) and secondary (problem in the pituitary or hypothalamus).
• By severity: acute and chronic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency include weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, skin pigmentation, and low blood pressure.

Causes

Causes may include autoimmune diseases, infections, genetic disorders, adrenal injuries, and others.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is carried out through blood tests for hormone levels and other tests.

Treatment

Treatment includes hormone replacement therapy and treatment of the underlying disease.

Prevention

Prevention includes regular check-ups, proper treatment of the underlying disease, and an active lifestyle.

Doctor

The treating physician is an endocrinologist.