Subtitle: Is Addison's Disease Lifelong?
Addison's disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the adrenal glands and can have a lifelong impact on sufferers. The disease is caused by the body's own immune system attacking the adrenal glands, resulting in the body being unable to produce sufficient hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin.
Autoimmune disorder means that the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In the case of Addison's disease, the immune system attacks the adrenal glands, causing them to produce insufficient amounts of hormones.
Adrenal glands are small glands located just above the kidneys. They produce hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. When these hormones are not produced in sufficient amounts, it can cause a range of symptoms including fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin.
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate the body's stress response. When cortisol levels are too low, it can cause fatigue, low blood pressure, and weight loss.
Aldosterone is another hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It helps regulate the body's salt and water balance. Low levels of aldosterone can cause low blood pressure, weakness, and fatigue.
The good news is that while Addison's disease is a lifelong condition, it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Treatment involves replacing the hormones that the body is unable to produce, as well as managing any other symptoms. People with Addison's disease can lead active, healthy lives with the proper care and treatment.