Question

what is Addison's disease?

Answer 1

Addison’s disease is just one aetiology (cause) of hypoadrenalism (under-active adrenal gland). Addison’s is an autoimmune condition in which thebody’s immune system turns against itself. It is now the commonest cause of hypoadrenalism although I think historically TB was and we still occasionally see TB as a cause today. Other rarer causes include genetic syndromes, infarction, trauma, other infections, iatrogenic (= caused by a medical intervention), cancer. However all the other causes are pretty rare.Addison’s if left untreated can be life-threatening especially when the patient has an additional illness on top, most commonly an infection. Fortunately it is easy to treat with IV steroids.

Answer 2

1. Addison's disease is a disorder that occurs when your body produces insufficient amounts of certain hormones produced by your adrenal glands.

2. People who have Addison’s disease may experience the following symptoms:

a. weakness in the muscles

b. fatigue and tiredness

c. darkening in skin color

d. weight loss or decreased appetite

e. a decrease in heart rate or blood pressure

f. low blood sugar levels

g. fainting spells

h. sores in the mouth

i. cravings for salt

j. nausea

k. vomiting

l. irritability or depression