Individuals that suffer from other autoimmune disorders should pay particular attention to how their health progresses throughout life.

Antifungal medicine or certain types of general anesthesia.

Genetic maladies that inhibit proper development of adrenal glands.

Removal of adrenal glands during surgery.

Some less common causes of adrenal insufficiency include: Those with HIV/AIDS were and still are at a higher risk of suffering from Addison’s disease. As TB would spread through the body, it often infected the adrenal glands and halted production of hormones, including that of cortisol and aldosterone. The damage done to the adrenal glands can inhibit the production of cortisol or aldosterone.īefore the advent of the tuberculosis vaccination, this infection was one of the most common causes of Addison’s disease. The immune system goes after its own internal systems and can damage organs, tissues, and the adrenal glands. On average, 70% of Addison’s diseases were a result of complications from autoimmune diseases. The onset of the disorder can be triggered by a variety of things, including: What are the causes for Addison’s Disease? How is it diagnosed? Secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary gland undergoes damage and is unable to produce the hormone ACTH (adrenocorticotropin). Adrenal disease can present in two ways – primary adrenal insufficiency, which is Addison’s disease, or secondary adrenal insufficiency.

Only one in 100,000 people are diagnosed with Addison’s. With an improper balance or inadequate supply, our entire physical body is in danger.Īddison’s disease affects both women and men of all ages, but is extremely rare. Hormones facilitate healthy bodily functions, from urination to the processing of food.

Aldosterone is equally as essential as it maintains a correct balance of sodium and potassium in the body’s bloodstream.Īlso known as “ adrenal insufficiency”, Addison’s disease drastically impacts the lives of those affected by it. Illness, injury, and recovery rely on cortisol production as does stable blood pressure, rhythmic heart beats, and glucose levels. The glands, which sit on top of the kidneys, fail to produce adequate amounts of cortisol and aldosterone – essential hormones for the correct organ and tissue function.Ĭortisol is necessary because it helps our bodies respond appropriately to daily stressors, both internal and external. The rare Addison’s Disease stems from a lack of hormone production in the adrenal glands.

Adrenal insufficiency treatment