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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Addison's Disease: Symptoms & Signs
      Category : Health Centers > Endocrine Disorders

Addison's Disease

Alternate Names : Primary Adrenocortical Insufficiency, Primary Adrenal Failure, Hypocortisolism

Addison's Disease | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

In most cases, the symptoms come on gradually. Addison disease commonly causes these symptoms:

  • skin changes with areas of dark tanning, which is most visible on scars, skin folds, mucous membranes, and pressure points such as elbows, knees, and knuckles
  • low blood pressure, which may cause dizziness or fainting if a person stands up too fast
  • nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • chronic, worsening muscle weakness and fatigue
  • loss of appetite and weight loss
  • irritability and depression
  • craving of salty foods due to salt imbalance in the body
  • low blood glucose levels, called hypoglycemia, which is more severe in children than in adults
  • irregular or absent menstrual periods in women
  • If symptoms progress too long without treatment, the person may go into an addisonian crisis. Symptoms of this crisis include:

  • sudden, piercing pain in the abdomen, lower back, or legs
  • severe vomiting and diarrhea
  • dehydration
  • dangerously low blood pressure
  • loss of consciousness
  • Without treatment, addisonian crisis can be fatal.


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    Addison's Disease: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

     

    Addison's Disease: Diagnosis & Tests

    Author: Adam Brochert, MD
    Reviewer: Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 09/19/02



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