Addison’s Disease
Addison’s Disease also known as is a disorder that comes from insufficient amounts of hormones produced by the adrenal gland
The adrenal gland produces and insufficient amount of Cortisol which is also known as the “stress hormone” and aldosterone which regulates the amount of electrolytes in the body.
Cause
Damage to the cortex, which is the outer layer of the adrenal gland.
Tumors, blood-thinning drugs, could cause damage to the adrenal gland.
caused by infections including tuberculosis, HIV, or fungal infectio
Signs and Symptoms
usually begin gradually getting worse
chronic worsening fatigue
muscle weakness
less of appetite
weight loss
low blood pressure
Fainting
skin changes- usually darkening
Diagnostic Procedures
difficult to diagnose
doctors will look up past medical history that is based on skin changes, which include dark tanning
lab testing to determine the amount of cortisol being produced by the adrenal gland.
X-Ray exam of the adrenal gland.