Addison's Disease

What is Addison's Disease

Damage to adrenal cortex, which is a gland located on-top of the kidney

This results in a decrease of steroid hormone production (e.g. cortisol/aldosterone)

Causes: autoimmune disease, infection (e.g. TB) or injury 🤕


What are the Symptoms of Addison's Disease

Weakness/fatigue/dizziness 💤

Dark patches of skin

Loss of appetite and weight loss 🥪

Muscle & abdominal pains

Period irregularities in women

Vomiting/nausea/diarrhoea 🤮


How do you Diagnose Addison's Disease

Blood tests (cortisol) 💉

Specialist referral to endocrinologist 🏥


How do you Treat Addison's Disease

Medication - steroid replacements (e.g. hydrocortisone) 💊


Why should I Worry about Addison's Disease

Premature death

Adrenal crisis ❗


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