What is Adrenal Insufficiency?

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones, primarily cortisol; but may also include impaired production of aldosterone (a mineralocorticoid), which regulates sodium conservation, potassium secretion, and water retention.^[1][2] Craving for salt or salty foods due to the urinary losses of sodium is common.^[3]

Addison's disease and congenital adrenal hyperplasia can manifest as adrenal insufficiency. If not treated, adrenal insufficiency may result in abdominal pains, vomiting, muscle weakness and fatigue, depression, low blood pressure, weight loss, kidney failure, changes in mood and personality, and shock (adrenal crisis).^[4] An adrenal crisis may occur if the body is subjected to stress, such as an accident, injury, surgery, or severe infection; death may quickly follow.^[4]

Adrenal insufficiency can also occur when the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland does not make adequate amounts of the hormones that assist in regulating adrenal function.^[1][5][6] This is called secondary or tertiary adrenal insufficiency and is caused by lack of production of ACTH in the pituitary or lack of CRH in the hypothalamus, respectively.

A Medical Id Alert For Adrenal Insufficiency Addisons Disease Can save your life.

Those with adrenal insufficiency, medical ID Alert Bracelet or Necklace is a MUST have. In the event of  an emergency, whether it is caused by your condition or not, EMTs need to know your diagnosis and treatment regimen so they may provide the most appropriate assistance without offering you any medications or treatments that are contraindicated.If you have adrenal insufficiency, wearing medical ID jewelry is imperative. We recommend listing your name, diagnosis(es), any medications, all allergies, and emergency contact numbers.