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Adrenal Crisis & Prognosis

Adrenal crisis is the result of the body not producing enough hormones such as adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) which regulates bodily function. The condition is very serious and can be life threatening if not treated early.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of adrenal crisis include abdominal and joint pain, dehydration, fatigue, high fever, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, loss of appetite, weight loss, weakness and confusion or coma.

    Causes

    • Adrenal crisis is caused by damage to the adrenal glands, injury to the pituitary gland and not properly treating adrenal insufficiency.

    Risks

    • Risk factors for adrenal crisis include infection, physical stress, trauma, surgery and a premature end to using steroids such as hydrocortisone.

    Treatment

    • Treatment of adrenal crisis includes hydrocortisone injections, intravenous fluids and possibly antibiotic therapy if the crisis is caused by an infection.

    Prognosis & Complications

    • Complications of adrenal crisis include seizures, shock and coma. If adrenal crisis is not treated early enough and the patient goes into shock it could lead to death.

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