Addison's disease, or primary adrenal insufficiency, is a chronic, autoimmune disorder that affects the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing hormones necessary for normal body functioning. When the adrenal glands are not functioning properly, an individual may experience a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, and cravings for salty foods.
The answer to the question “Can Addison’s come and go?” is yes. In most cases, Addison’s is a chronic, lifelong condition that requires lifelong management and treatment. However, there are cases in which Addison's disease may come and go. This phenomenon is known as periodic or intermittent Addison's disease, and it is typically caused by a variety of factors such as extreme stress, physical trauma, or an illness.
Intermittent Addison's is usually characterized by periods of remission, in which individuals experience no symptoms of the disease, followed by periods of exacerbation, in which symptoms may return. During periods of exacerbation, individuals may experience the same symptoms they experienced when initially diagnosed with Addison's disease.
If you or someone you know is experiencing periods of remission and exacerbation of Addison’s, it is important to speak with a doctor. While Addison's can come and go, it is important to obtain proper diagnosis and treatment to avoid any potential complications.