ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY

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Adrenal insufficiency refers to the inability of the adrenal glands to produce a normal quantity of hormones, especially cortisol and aldosterone. The affected person has a reduced ability to cope with stress. Adrenal insufficiency is a life-threatening condition. The symptoms of adrenal insufficiency usually begin gradually but get worse when exposed to stress such as illness and accident. Characteristics of the disease are

  • chronic, worsening fatigue
  • muscle weakness
  • loss of appetite
  • weight loss
  • nausea & vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • dehydration
  • low blood pressure and fainting while standing
  • loss of consciouness
  • bronze color pigmentation on skin and mucous membranes
  • salt loss and craving for salty food
  • irritability and depression
  • low blood sugar
  • irregular or no menstrual periods