Addison’s Disease

What is Addison’s Disease?

The adrenal glands, present on the top of each of the kidneys, are responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, immune system, blood pressure and other important functions. Addison's disease is a type of adrenal disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands produce insufficient amounts of hormones (cortisol and aldosterone). This condition arises when the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal glands gets damaged. The disease can pose a threat to the patient’s life.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Addison’s disease include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Pain in the abdomen area
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Darkening of the skin
  • Low blood pressure
  • Low blood sugar levels
  • Salt craving
  • Muscle ache
  • Stress

Show More

Causes

Some causes of Addison’s disease include:

  • Tuberculosis
  • Infections in the adrenal glands
  • Presence of cancer in the adrenal glands
  • Bleeding in the adrenal glands

Show More

Risks

The risk of developing Addison’s disease increases if a person:

  • Has cancer.
  • Takes anticoagulants (blood thinners)
  • Has chronic infections like tuberculosis.
  • Has gone through a surgery to get any part of the adrenal gland removed.
  • Has diabetes
    -has Graves' disease.

Show More

Prevention

Prevention of Addison’s disease includes controlling the symptoms, treating the main cause and limiting the risk factors. The disease can be prevented by

  • Treating fungal infections.
  • Controlling diabetes.
  • Identifying the cancer in the patient’s body and treating it. 
  • Treating bacterial infections such as tuberculosis.

Show More

How is it diagnosed?

During diagnosis, the doctor examines the medical history of the patient and checks the presence of signs and symptoms of Addison’s disease. The doctor confirms the presence of the disease by car...

How is it treated?

The treatment for Addison's disease focuses on hormone replacement therapy that helps in normalising the level of adrenal hormones which the adrenal glands fail to produce.

..

  • Corticosteroid injections

    The doctor opts for injections if the patient can't retain oral medications due to vomiting. He also recommends an ample amount of sodium, especially during heavy exercise, during warm weather, or if the patient has diarrhoea.

  • Alternative Therapies

    Alternate therapies include yoga and meditation that help in minimising stress. Major life events, such as death of a loved one or an injury, can increase stress levels in patients. It is vital for the patients of Addison’s disease to keep their stress levels in control.

When do I contact the doctor?

People should consult a doctor if they observe any signs and symptoms of Addison’s disease. Darkening of skin, severe fatigue, sudden weight loss, salt cravings and joint pains are some of the prominent symptoms of the disease.

Book an Appointment

How does Medanta provide care?

Medanta ensures expert care for its patients who are diagnosed with Addison’s disease at the Institute of Endocrinology & Diabetology.


The Endocrinology & Diabetology division offers expert care for various metabolic, pitui..

Consult with experienced doctors

Book an Appointment

Get treated in specialised institutes and departments

  • Have a question?

    Call us +91 - 124 - 4141414

Feedback