Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands don’t make enough of two hormones, cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones affect many bodily functions, including the body’s response to stress, blood pressure, and salt and water balance. When there are low levels of these hormones, it can cause problems with the way the body works. In some cases, Addison’s disease can cause severe symptoms that can be life threatening.
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What are the signs and symptoms of Addison’s disease?
Symptoms of Addison’s disease may include:
- Muscle weakness
- Feeling very tired
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Please note there are many conditions with similar symptoms. It’s important to see your child’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In some cases, the symptoms can appear suddenly or can get worse very quickly. This is called Addisonian crisis or acute adrenal failure. It can be a life-threatening condition and needs medical treatment right away. Symptoms of Addisonian crisis include:
- Intense pain in the stomach, lower back or legs
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
If your child has any of these symptoms, call their doctor or get medical help right away.
What causes Addison’s disease?
Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands are damaged in some way. It is most often caused by an autoimmune disorder. It can also be caused by:
- An infection in the adrenal glands
- Cancer
- A problem with the pituitary gland
- Suddenly stopping steroid medicines, such as prednisone