Chronic Insufficiency of the Adrenal Cortex

The adrenal glands are small paired organs located above the kidneys. Their main task is to produce hormones that regulate all vital processes in the body. Chronic adrenal insufficiency is a disease in which the production of hormones is reduced.

Causes

Primary deficiency (Addison's disease) most often has an unknown cause. Possible factors are tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases, stress.

Secondary failure develops due to disorders in the pituitary gland.

Symptoms

General weakness, loss of body weight and blood pressure, digestive disorders, night urination, problems with memory and attention.

Addison's disease causes darkening of the skin.

Diagnostics

Blood tests, hormone level studies, CT scan of the adrenal glands.

Treatment

Taking adrenal hormones, increased consumption of salt and vitamin C. Avoid stress. During exacerbations, the dose of hormones is increased.

With timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable. Normal pregnancy and childbirth are possible.