What Is Addison's Disease

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Addison's disease Alexandra Bowden Addison's disease is when your body produces insufficient amounts of certain hormones produced by your adrenal glands. One way the body keeps itself in balance is by using chemical messengers called hormones to regulate various functions. Just above each of your kidneys is a small adrenal gland. In Addison's disease, your adrenal glands do not make enough cortisol and often not enough aldosterone. Also called adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease occurs in all age groups and affects both sexes. Addison's disease is a rare condition. Only one in 100,000 people have it. People with Addison's disease can lead normal lives as long as they take their medication. President John F. Kennedy had…show more content…
These symptoms include (get ready for the commercial); muscle weakness and fatigue,weight loss, hyperpigmentation, low blood pressure -which may cause fainting spells, salt cravings, hypoglycemia, nausea, diarrhea or vomiting, muscle or joint pains, irritability, depression, and body hair loss or sexual dysfunction in…show more content…
Your doctor may prescribe an oral corticosteroid such as fludrocortisone to replace aldosterone. Hydrocortisone (Cortef), prednisone or cortisone acetate may be used to replace cortisol. If you're ill with vomiting and can't retain oral medications, injections may be needed. To treat androgen deficiency in women, dehydroepiandrosterone can be prescribed. Some studies suggest that this therapy may improve overall sense of well-being, libido and sexual satisfaction. An ample amount of sodium is recommended, especially during heavy exercise, when the weather is hot, or if you have gastrointestinal upsets, such as diarrhea. Your doctor will also suggest a temporary increase in your dosage if you're facing a stressful situation, such as an operation, an infection or a minor illness. With Addison’s disease it’s important to remember that your body cannot balance itself out so it’s very important to listen to what’s going on so that you can help in anyway you

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