Addison's disease is a disease that occurs when certain hormones in the body are not produced at sufficient levels. It is also known as adrenal insufficiency. It is a rare condition. It is a condition in which the adrenal glands located above the kidneys of people cannot produce enough cortisol and aldosterone hormones. It is a life-threatening problem that can be seen in all age groups and genders. The treatment of the disease is carried out by supplementing the deficient hormones from outside.
If left untreated, the disease can be life-threatening. The disease is usually identified and diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 50. Common symptoms of the disease, which can be treated with medication, include extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and an excessive desire to consume salt.
What Causes Addison's Disease?
Addison's disease is caused by damage and damage to the adrenal glands due to a problem. This situation causes the hormone cortisol to be insufficient for the person and sometimes causes aldosterone deficiency in the body.
The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system. They are responsible for producing hormones that give orders to all organs and tissues in the body. There are two types of adrenal glands. The first is the medulla, which is located in the inner part and produces hormones similar to adrenaline. The second is the cortex, the outer layer, which is referred to as the outer layer and has the task of producing a group of hormones called corticosteroids. Corticosteroid hormones include glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids and androgens.
Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, support a person's ability to convert food and nutrients that enter the body into energy. They help the body react to stress by playing a role in the immune response to infection.
Mineralocorticoids, such as aldosterone, stabilize blood pressure and blood pressure. They also stabilize sodium and potassium levels.
Among the sex hormones, androgens are produced in small amounts by the adrenal glands in both men and women. These hormones support male sexual development. For men and women, androgen hormones are effective in muscle mass development, increased libido and well-being.
What are the symptoms of Addison's disease?
The symptoms of Addison's disease differ depending on the hormone that is deficient. It is important to recognize the symptoms and know the hormone functions. Cortisol is known as a stress-induced hormone that is secreted through the adrenal glands. Its main function is to support the body in responding to stress.
It also balances the body's utilization of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. It controls inflammation as well as maintaining blood pressure levels and heart function.
Symptoms of the disease often progress slowly for the first few months. It may not be recognized until there are stressors to the body, such as injury or illness. Symptoms of the disease include
- A feeling of intense fatigue
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Hunger state (hypoglycemia)
- Darkening of the color of the oral mucosa and skin
- Low blood pressure and fainting
- Excessive need to eat salt
- Low blood sugar
- Stomach problems and diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Pain in muscles and joints
- Constant irritability
- Behavioral disorder and depression
- Reduced sweating
- Reduction in female genital area and armpit hair
How is Addison's Disease Diagnosed?
In order to diagnose Addison's disease , the person should be examined by a specialist doctor and tell the history of the disease. The doctor listens to the patient's story in detail and evaluates the clinical findings.
In case of suspicion, different tests and examinations can be performed to detect the disease in the person and to reach a conclusion between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiencies. Tests to examine the person's blood glucose levels and kidney function are also important to find out the cause of the disease and plan treatment.
A number of imaging techniques can be used to assess and examine the shape of the adrenal glands and pituitary gland. These methods include devices such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
As a result of all these examinations, the disease condition in the person is determined and the treatment process is planned.
How is Addison's Disease Treated?
Since adrenal insufficiency leads to a deficiency of hormones, specialist physicians mostly apply hormone replacement in its treatment. This is done by giving hydrocortisone tablets once or twice a day. Addison's disease treatment is carried out under the supervision of a doctor and as deemed necessary by the specialist.
When deemed necessary by the doctor, aldosterone is replaced with a synthetic steroid, fludrocortisone acetate, taken by mouth once daily. The medication may be increased in case of stress, infection, injury or surgery. Treatment often has positive results. If the treatment is successful, people can lead a normal life.
In addition, people are advised to keep a doctor's alert bracelet and emergency ID card with them and to keep a small supply of medication for work or school.
What is the Addison's Disease Diet?
One of the important conditions for the disease is to stay away from stress and maintain a healthy life. Dietary practices for individuals with the disease are also important in terms of disease sensitivity. Therefore, a nutritious and balanced diet should be made.
People should avoid consuming energy drinks, soda or coffee. High levels of sugar and caffeine are harmful in this disease. When blood sugar levels are low, refined and prepared foods with high sugar content should be avoided.
For adequate salt consumption, doctor's recommendations should be followed. While you may need it, consuming too much salt for the body can be harmful. For this reason, you should be careful about salt and people who sweat excessively can add a small amount to meals.
Since too much stress triggers the disease, the person should stay away from stressful environments and should not be exposed. Vitamin C-based diet is effective against stress as well as strengthening immunity.