Addison's disease happens when the adrenal glands do not work normally and do not make enough hormones. Addison's disease may also be called chronic adrenal insufficiency or hypocortisolism.
The adrenal glands are located near the top of each kidney. They make several types of hormones, including corticosteroids. These hormones affect a number of body functions, including:
The adrenal glands may stop making enough hormones when they are damaged by infection, cancer, or an autoimmune response. When the body has an autoimmune response, it starts to see a part of itself as foreign and attacks it. The adrenal glands may also stop working if you have been taking steroid medicine and then suddenly stop taking it.
The adrenal glands are controlled by the pituitary gland. Sometimes they stop making hormones if the pituitary gland stops working normally.
Symptoms of Addison's disease may start slowly. They include:
You may not notice your symptoms until your body is stressed by an infection, injury, or surgery. The stress may cause what is called an Addisonian crisis. Without treatment, an Addisonian crisis can be fatal. Signs and symptoms of Addisonian crisis include:
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history and examine you. You may have the following tests:
First you will have tests to measure cortisol in your blood and urine. Then you will be given a dose of man-made ACTH to measure your body’s response to it. If you have Addison’s disease, no increase in cortisol will be found in your blood and urine after the ACTH has been given.
Addison's disease is treated with replacement hormones. Your healthcare provider will prescribe a corticosteroid such as prednisone. You will need to take prednisone the rest of your life.
If the disease has affected the level of minerals in your body, your provider may also prescribe fludrocortisone. This medicine will help your body have a normal balance of sodium and potassium. You may be able to stop taking fludrocortisone after a while.
Addison's disease is a lifelong condition. With proper treatment, crises may be avoided and you will be able to lead a normal life.
There is no way to prevent Addison's disease.