Adrenal Insufficiency
Answers to common questions about adrenal insufficiency.
Questions on this page
What is adrenal insufficiency?
Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands cannot produce enough cortisol.
In some cases, aldosterone production is also reduced.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent tiredness
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Poor appetite
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- Salt craving
- Low sodium
- High potassium
Symptoms can develop gradually and may be mistaken for other conditions.
What is Addison disease?
Addison disease is primary adrenal insufficiency, where the adrenal glands themselves are damaged or unable to produce adequate hormones.
What causes Addison disease?
Causes include:
- Autoimmune adrenal destruction
- Certain infections
- Adrenal haemorrhage
- Infiltrative disorders
- Genetic disorders
- Certain medications
Autoimmune disease is an important cause of Addison disease.