Addison’s disease

Definition

Addison’s disease is a chronic condition where the adrenal glands produce insufficient amounts of cortisol and aldosterone. It can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Primary treatment for Addison's disease involves hormone replacement therapy to compensate for low levels of cortisol and aldosterone.
2. Patients with Addison's disease often need to increase their sodium intake, especially during periods of stress or illness.
3. Nutritional management includes maintaining balanced blood sugar levels through regular meals and snacks due to potential hypoglycemia.
4. Vitamin D and calcium are essential in the diet to combat possible bone density loss related to long-term corticosteroid use.
5. Regular monitoring of electrolytes (sodium and potassium) is crucial as imbalances can occur due to altered aldosterone levels.

Review Questions

• What hormones are deficient in individuals with Addison’s disease?
• Why might a patient with Addison’s disease need to increase their sodium intake during periods of stress?
• Which dietary components are essential for managing bone health in patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy?

Related terms

Cortisol:

A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress.

Adrenal Insufficiency: A condition where the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones.

Aldosterone:

A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure by controlling sodium and potassium levels.