Question

What Is the Most Common Cause of Adrenal Insufficiency?

Answer 1

Adrenal glands:

1. Adrenal glands are situated above kidneys and work under the influence of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
2. They release mineralocorticoids (Aldosterone), glucocorticoids (Cortisol), and sex hormones (Testosterone and estrogen).
3. Aldosterone is responsible for regulating the sodium and water concentration in the body.
4. Cortisol controls blood pressure and helps break down fats, carbohydrates and proteins. It is a stress-response hormone.

The most common form of Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands are damaged and do not make enough amount of cortisol.

1. This condition is known as Addison's disease. This is also referred to as primary adrenal insufficiency.
2. It is characterised by fatigue, lethargy, abnormal drowsiness, loss of muscle strength, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and mild depression along with mood swings.
3. Secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary gland does not make enough ACTH (adrenocorticotropin) hormone, as a result of which less cortisol is released by adrenal glands.