Addison's disease symptoms, causes, diagnosis & treatment

#addison #disease #overview Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare and potentially life-threatening disorder that affects the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small glands located on top of the kidneys that produce several hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones help regulate the body's metabolism, blood pressure, and immune system. In people with Addison's disease, the adrenal glands do not produce enough of these hormones, leading to a wide range of symptoms. These may include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, darkening of the skin, and salt cravings. Addison's disease can also cause feelings of depression, anxiety, and irritability. The most common cause of Addison's disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the adrenal glands. Other causes may include infections, such as tuberculosis or HIV, or the removal of the adrenal glands during surgery.