Low Adrenal Cortisol Symptoms

Low adrenal cortisol has a widespread effect on the body. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal cortex. This vital hormone helps to regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels, helps to regulate the balance between salt and water in the body, helps maintain energy levels and also has an anti-inflammatory effect throughout the body. When the body loses its ability to produce enough cortisol, the disease called Addison's disease occurs.

Cause

• Most cases of Addison's disease are caused by an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system destroys the adrenal cortex. This is where cortisol is produced. Cancer, tuberculosis and genetic problems can also cause low adrenal cortisol production. Polyendrocrine disease, or problems with more than one endocrine gland, can also be associated with Addison's disease.

General Symptoms

• Because of the problems regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels, a person with Addison's disease may feel weak, tired and dizzy when they stand up after sitting or lying down. Depending on the cause of the destruction of the adrenal cortex, the symptoms may gradually develop over a long period of time. Depression and irritability can also be a symptom of Addison's disease.

Effects of Stress

• Cortisol is a vital hormone needed during times of stress. Some symptoms may develop after a time of stress, when the body normally needs cortisol to respond. A person with Addison's disease, when stressed, may have symptoms of loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea or diarrhea. They may also lose weight, become dehydrated or have aching muscles. Cold intolerance may also occur during a stressful time. Because of the dysregulation of blood sugar, the person with Addison's may also become hypoglycemic.

Skin Changes

• Another major symptom associated with low adrenal cortisol levels is pigmentation changes in the skin. Patches of dark skin, which can mimic tanning, can develop anywhere on the body. A clue to this dark pigmentation is that the dark patches occur in places not exposed to sunlight. Even people with naturally dark skin can have these patches, although it may be harder to discern the pigmented patches. In addition to patches, black freckling can occur on the face or upper body. A dark discoloration may form around mucocutaneous junctions like the lips, nipples or genital regions. Discoloration may occur on the elbows, skin folds or on scars.

Adrenal Crisis

• When Addison's disease is unrecognized or is not treated, serious health consequences can occur. An adrenal crisis can occur if the body undergoes severe stress such as traumatic injury, surgery or serious infection. Symptoms of an adrenal crisis include very low blood pressure, severe abdominal pains, severe weakness, kidney failure, loss of consciousness or shock. This is a very serious medical situation and death can result if it is not recognized and promptly treated.