Introduction

Addisons disease (also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism) is a rare disorder of the adrenal glands.

The adrenal glands are two small glands that sit on top of the kidneys. They produce two essential hormones: cortisol and aldosterone .

In Addison's disease, the adrenal gland is damaged, and not enough cortisol and aldosterone are produced.

About 8,400 people in the UK have Addison's disease. It can affect people of any age, although it's most common between the ages of 30 and 50.It's also more common in women thanmen.

Early-stage symptoms of Addisons disease are similar to other more common health conditions, such as Depression or flu .

You may experience:

  • fatigue (lack of energy or motivation)
  • muscle weakness
  • low mood
  • loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss
  • increased thirst

Over time, theseproblems may become more severe and you may experience further symptoms, such as dizziness, fainting , cramps and exhaustion. You may also develop small areas of darkened skin, or darkened lips or gums.

Although these symptoms arent always caused by Addisons disease, you should see your GP, so they can be investigated.

It's not clear why this happens, but it's responsible for 70-90% of cases in the UK.

Other potential causes include conditions that can damage the adrenal glands, such as tuberculosis (TB) , although this is uncommon in the UK.

You'll need to take the medication for the rest of your life.

With treatment, symptoms of Addison's disease can largely be controlled. Most people with the condition live a normal lifespan andare able tolive an active life, with few limitations.

However,many people with Addison's disease also find they must learn to managebouts of fatigue and there may be associated health conditions, such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid .

People with Addison's disease must be constantly aware of the risk of a sudden worsening of symptoms, called an adrenal crisis. Thiscan happen when the levels of cortisolin your body fallsignificantly.

An adrenal crisis is a medical emergency. If left untreated, it can be fatal. If you or someone you know has Addisons disease and is experiencing severe symptoms, dial 999 for an ambulance.

This helps scientists look for better ways to prevent and treat this condition. You can opt out of the register at any time.

Find out more about the register .

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016