Addison's disease

Addison’s disease is a disorder that occurs when our adrenal glands are not producing enough of their hormones. Our adrenal glands have two parts. The first part which is the outer portion of the gland is called the cortex, while the inner portion is called the medullar. The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney. Our adrenals are responsible for producing the glucocorticoid which is to maintain our sugar control and help the body respond to stress. Another hormone called the mineralocorticoid hormone regulates the sodium and potassium balance. Last, the sex hormones which affect sexual development and sex drive.

The Addison’s disease is named after Dr. Thomas Addison; a physician who was first described the condition in 1849. The disease can be caused by damage by the body’s own immune system, certain infections and damage to the adrenal cortex where it does not produces cortisol and in some cases the hormone aldosterone. Doctors refer the conditions involving the aldosterone called primary adrenal insufficiency and secondary adrenal insufficiency. Primary adrenal insufficiency is when the body is attacking itself. For some unknown reasons, the immune system views the cortex as foreign which will attack and destroyed. Secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when pituitary gland is diseased. The pituitary gland makes hormones called ACTH which stimulates the adrenal cortex to produces its hormones. Inadequate production of the ACTH can lead to insufficient production of hormones that are normally produces by the adrenal glands.

Characteristics if the Addison disease includes loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle weakness and fatigue. Other symptoms include low blood pressure and also skin color changing. Dark color changes are most visible on scars, skin folds and pressure points such as elbows and the knees. Not only does Addison disease have symptoms but it can also cause irritability and depression. It can also cause hypoglycemia because of the salt loss or