Addison’s disease

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Endocrine glands

Adrenocortical hypofunction; Chronic adrenocortical insufficiency; Primary adrenal insufficiency

Treatment with replacement corticosteroids will control the symptoms of this disease. However, these drugs must usually be continued for life. Usually, people receive a combination of glucocorticoids (cortisone or hydrocortisone) and mineralocorticoids (fludrocortisone).

Times of stress, infection, or injury may require increased doses of medications.

Adrenal crisis is an extreme form of symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, brought on by physical stress. Hydrocortisone must be injected immediately to sustain life. Supportive treatment for low blood pressure is usually necessary as well.

Some people with Addison's disease are taught to give themselves an emergency injection of hydrocortisone during stressful situations. It is important for the individual with Addison's disease to always carry a medical identification card that states the type of medication and the proper dose needed in case of an emergency.

Never skip doses of medication for this condition, as life-threatening reactions may occur. If you are unable to keep the medication down due to vomiting, notify your health care provider, go to the emergency room, or call the local emergency number (such as 911) immediately.

Also report sudden weight gain or fluid retention to your health care provider.

With adequate replacement therapy, most people with Addison's disease are able to lead normal lives.

Complications may result from the following associated illnesses:

• Diabetes
• Thyrotoxicosis
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis (chronic thyroiditis)
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Pernicious anemia
• Ovarian hypofunction or testicular failure

Call your health care provider if you have been diagnosed with Addison's disease, and stress such as infection, injury, trauma, or dehydration occurs. Medication adjustments may be needed.

Call your provider if your weight increases over time, your ankles begin to swell, or other new symptoms develop.

If symptoms of adrenal crisis (low blood pressure, diminished consciousness, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain) occur, give yourself an emergency injection of your prescribed medication as instructed or -- if this is not available -- go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

Review Date: 08/08/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network