Question 1

What is Addison’s disease?

Accepted Answer

Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare condition where the adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol and sometimes aldosterone-hormones essential for metabolism, stress response, and blood pressure control.

Question 2

How does Addison’s disease make you feel?

Accepted Answer

People with Addison’s disease may feel extremely tired, dizzy, or weak. They might also experience mood changes, nausea, loss of appetite, and darkening of the skin, especially in sun-exposed areas.

Question 3

What are the signs of an Addisonian crisis?

Accepted Answer

An Addisonian crisis is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include severe vomiting, abdominal pain, low blood pressure, confusion, fainting, or even shock. It requires immediate medical care.

Question 4

How is Addison’s disease diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Doctors typically diagnose Addison’s disease using a combination of blood tests, ACTH stimulation tests, and imaging studies to measure hormone levels and check adrenal gland function.

Question 5

What tests confirm Addison’s disease?

Accepted Answer

The ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation test is the most common diagnostic tool for Addison’s disease. It evaluates how well the adrenal glands respond to adrenocorticotropic hormone by measuring cortisol levels before and after stimulation.
Source: Mayo Clinic

Question 6

Can you have Addison’s disease for years without knowing it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Symptoms often develop slowly and can be mistaken for other conditions. Fatigue, weight loss, and skin changes may go unrecognized for a long time before a diagnosis is made.

Question 7

What should people with Addison’s disease avoid?

Accepted Answer

People with Addison’s disease should avoid skipping medication, extreme physical stress, and certain medications unless approved by their doctor. Infection and sudden illness can also trigger adrenal crises.

Question 8

Can stress affect Addison’s disease?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Physical or emotional stress can strain the body’s hormone balance. People with Addison’s disease may need medication adjustments during illness, surgery, or stressful events.

Question 9

What happens after being diagnosed with Addison’s disease?

Accepted Answer

After diagnosis, most people begin hormone replacement therapy to manage symptoms. Regular checkups, stress-dose planning, and wearing medical ID are also part of long-term care.

Question 10

What are the vital signs of an Addisonian crisis?

Accepted Answer

During a crisis, vital signs may show low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, low sodium, and high potassium levels. These changes can progress quickly and require emergency treatment.

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