With treatment, symptoms of Addison's disease can largely be controlled. Most people with the condition have a normal lifespan and are able to live an active life, with few limitations. You will need to take the medication for the rest of your life. Treating Addison's diseaseĪddison’s disease is treated with medication to replace the missing hormones. Read more about the causes of Addison’s disease. Other potential causes include conditions that can damage the adrenal glands, such as tuberculosis (TB), although this is uncommon in the UK. It is not clear why this happens, but it is responsible for 70-90% of cases in the UK.
The condition is usually the result of a problem with the immune system, which causes it to attack the outer later of the adrenal gland (the adrenal cortex), disrupting the production of the steroid hormones aldosterone and cortisol. Read more about the symptoms of Addison’s disease and diagnosing Addison’s disease. You may also develop small areas of darkened skin, or darkened lips or gums.Īlthough these symptoms aren’t always caused by Addison’s disease, you should see your GP if you have them so they can be investigated. Over time, these problems may become more severe and you may experience further symptoms, such as dizziness, fainting, cramps and exhaustion. loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss.It can affect people of any age, although it's most common between the ages of 30 and 50. It is also more common in women than men.Įarly-stage symptoms of Addison’s disease are similar to other more common health conditions such as depression or flu. You may experience: The adrenal gland is damaged in Addison's disease, so it does not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone.Ībout 8,400 people in the UK have Addison's disease. They produce two essential hormones: cortisol and aldosterone.
The adrenal glands are two small glands that sit on top of the kidneys. Addison’s disease - also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism - is a rare disorder of the adrenal glands.