How to Recognize an Addisonian Crisis

Addisonian crisis, also known as acute adrenal crisis or failure, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the adrenal gland fails to produce sufficient cortisol, a steroidal hormone. This condition is described by Kevin M Klauer, DO, FACEP as elusive and resulting in high rates of morbidity and mortality when diagnosis of this condition is missed. This condition can occur when the adrenal gland is damaged from a condition such as Addison's disease or primary adrenal insufficiency. It may also occur if the pituitary gland is injured or if adrenal insufficiency is not properly treated. Identification of this condition and swift treatment can prevent mortality.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask the individual, if he is conscious, whether he is experiencing any of the following: abdominal pain, dizziness or light-headedness, fatigue or flank pain.

• 2

  Look for signs of confusion, darkening of the skin and weight loss. The individual may appear to have slowed or sluggish movements and profound weakness.

• 3

  Check for symptoms of dehydration, such as excessive thirst and loss of appetite. The individual may also appear flushed, have dry skin and may be fatigued. Question whether her urine is dark and whether she is experiencing chills.

• 4

  Determine whether the individual has a headache, high fever or joint pain.

• 5

  Inquire whether the individual is experiencing a loss of appetite or nausea. The person may also be experiencing vomiting.

• 6

  Check for additional symptoms such as skin rash or lesions, unusual and excessive sweating on face or palms, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing or low blood pressure.