Addison's Disease Explained – What You Need to Know

If you’ve heard the term “Addison’s disease” and wondered what it really means, you’re not alone. It’s a condition where your adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, especially cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. Those hormones control stress response, blood pressure, and metabolism, so low levels can affect many parts of daily life.

Common Signs & Symptoms

People with Addison’s often notice fatigue that won’t go away, even after a good night’s sleep. A sudden craving for salty foods or a persistent low blood pressure are other red flags. You might also experience muscle aches, weight loss, or darkening of the skin on elbows and knees – a clue doctors call “hyperpigmentation.”

Feeling dizzy when you stand up quickly is another tell‑tale sign because your body can’t keep sodium levels steady. Some report mood swings, irritability, or difficulty handling stress. If any of these pop up together, it’s worth talking to a healthcare provider.

How It’s Diagnosed and Treated

The first step is usually a blood test that checks cortisol and ACTH (the hormone that tells your adrenals what to do). Doctors may also do an ACTH stimulation test, where they give synthetic ACTH and watch how cortisol responds. Low numbers across the board point to Addison’s.

Once confirmed, treatment focuses on replacing missing hormones. Most people take a daily glucocorticoid pill like hydrocortisone to mimic cortisol. If aldosterone is low, a mineralocorticoid such as fludrocortisone helps keep blood pressure and sodium in check.

Dosage isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all; your doctor will adjust based on symptoms, stress levels, and lab results. During illness or major surgery, you’ll need extra “stress doses” to avoid an adrenal crisis – a sudden drop that can be life‑threatening if not treated fast with injectable steroids.

Living with Addison’s also means being prepared. Carry a medical alert bracelet, keep emergency injection kits handy, and let friends or family know what to do if you feel faint or nauseous suddenly.

Regular follow‑ups are key. Blood tests every few months help fine‑tune medication, while checking weight, blood pressure, and energy levels gives clues about how well the treatment works. Most people lead normal lives once they find the right balance.

If you’re curious about diet, there’s no strict “Addison’s menu,” but staying hydrated and eating a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats supports overall health. Some folks add a little extra salt if their doctor says it helps keep blood pressure steady.

Bottom line: Addison’s disease may sound scary, but with proper diagnosis, hormone replacement, and a bit of daily vigilance, you can manage the condition effectively. Keep an eye on symptoms, stay in touch with your healthcare team, and don’t hesitate to ask questions – that’s how you keep control of your health.