Hyperactive Adrenal Disorder

Adrenal glands, located at the top portion of each kidney, produce specific hormones necessary to live. Too much or too little production creates various disorders that must be evaluated and treated medically.

Hormones

• The adrenal glands produce adrenaline, which controls blood pressure and heart rate. According to the American Urological Association Foundation, they also produce hormones controlling how fats, proteins and carbohydrates are used in the body. Cortisol is also produced, helping the body handle physical and emotional stress.

Cushing's

• Hyperactivity of the adrenal glands can result in Cushing's syndrome. In this disorder, there is an overproduction of cortisol. The American Urological Association Foundation says the symptoms include hypertension, diabetes, weakness and excessive body hair.

Cancer

• Hyperactive adrenal glands can also be a result of cancer of the glands. The symptoms mirror those of Cushing's syndrome.

Pheochromocytoma

• Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal gland that produces hyperactivity of epinephrine and norepinephrine hormones. This is a rare tumor and extremely dangerous if not diagnosed and treated early.

Hyperaldosteronism

• This is the overproduction of aldosterone hormone responsible for regulating the levels of sodium and potassium in blood levels.