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Underactive Adrenal Gland Symptoms

Underactive adrenal gland is a hormonal disorder in which adrenal glands don't make enough of certain hormones. It is known as Addison's disease and it affects 1 to 4 people out of every 100,000, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

  1. Types

    • Primary adrenal insufficiency is when adrenal glands don't produce enough of the hormones coritsol and aldosterone. Secondary adrenal insufficiency is when there isn't enough of the hormone adrenocorticotropin produced by the pituitary gland.

    Common Symptoms

    • Weight loss, muscle weakness and loss of appetite are among the most common symptoms. Fatigue that is chronic and worsening is also a symptom of underactive adrenal gland.

    Other Symptoms

    • Other symptoms of underactive adrenal gland include diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting, low blood sugar and irritability. There may also be a craving for salty foods, irregular periods and low blood pressure.

    Adrenal Crisis

    • Symptoms usually come on slowly. A sudden and severe worsening in symptoms is an acute adrenal insufficiency called Addisonian crisis.

    Crisis Symptoms

    • Addisonian symptoms include loss of consciousness, dehydration and pain in the lower stomach, back and legs that is sudden and penetrating.

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