A SERIOUS DISORDER OF LOW ADRENAL HORMONE PRODUCTION
Addison's Disease
An adrenal disorder with low cortisol production, causing fatigue, low blood pressure, weight loss and skin darkening. Lifelong hormone replacement is essential, with stress-dose adjustments.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Addison's Disease
Addison's disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) is a serious condition in which the adrenal glands fail to produce enough cortisol and often also aldosterone. The most common cause worldwide is autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands, but infections such as tuberculosis, certain medications and rare genetic conditions can also be responsible. Symptoms develop gradually and include persistent tiredness, weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, dizziness on standing, salt cravings, abdominal pain, nausea, mood changes and darkening of the skin, particularly over scars, joints and skin folds. In times of stress, illness or surgery, patients can develop life-threatening adrenal crisis with severe weakness, vomiting, low blood pressure and shock. Lifelong glucocorticoid (and often mineralocorticoid) replacement, with stress-dose adjustments and emergency planning, is essential. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive Addison's care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands (most common)
- Tuberculosis and other infections affecting the adrenals
- Surgical removal or damage to the adrenal glands
- Certain medications and rare genetic conditions
- Sudden withdrawal of long-term steroid medication
- Bleeding into the adrenal glands
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Blood tests for cortisol, ACTH, electrolytes; ACTH stimulation test; imaging where indicated
Lifelong glucocorticoid and often mineralocorticoid replacement
Stress-dose adjustment and emergency injection kit
Wearing a medical alert tag is strongly recommended
Comprehensive patient and family education is essential
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Lifelong Hormone Replacement with Stress-Dose Planning
The most effective approach is lifelong glucocorticoid (and where needed mineralocorticoid) replacement, careful stress-dose adjustment during illness or surgery, an emergency injection kit at home, and detailed patient and family education on recognising and treating adrenal crisis.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the patient and orders blood tests for cortisol, ACTH, electrolytes and an ACTH stimulation test as needed.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised replacement plan is created, with stress-dose rules, an emergency kit and an emergency action plan.
- 3
Medical Management
Lifelong glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement, education on adjusting doses during illness, and management of any underlying cause.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review to monitor blood pressure, electrolytes, well-being and adjust replacement therapy; emergency support during acute illnesses.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Lifelong Glucocorticoid Replacement
Daily glucocorticoid medication replaces the body's cortisol and is essential for life.
Mineralocorticoid Replacement
Where aldosterone is also deficient, mineralocorticoid replacement helps maintain salt and fluid balance and blood pressure.
Stress-Dose Adjustment
Doses are increased during illness, fever, surgery or other major stress to mimic the body's natural response and prevent adrenal crisis.
Emergency Injection Kit
Patients are equipped with an emergency injection kit and taught how to use it during severe illness or vomiting.
Patient Education
Detailed education on stress-dose rules, sick-day management, medical alert identification and family awareness for emergencies.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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