Adrenal Insufficiency Symptoms (Cont.)

Other Symptoms of Adrenal Insufficiency

Other possible adrenal insufficiency symptoms include:
 
  • Low blood pressure that falls further when standing, causing dizziness or fainting
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) symptoms, including sweating, nausea, palpitations, and anxiety
  • Craving for salty foods
  • Irregular menstrual periods.
     
In Addison's disease, skin changes can occur with areas of hyperpigmentation, or dark tanning, covering exposed and non-exposed parts of the body. This darkening of the skin is most visible on scars, skin folds, pressure points (such as the elbows, knees, knuckles, and toes), lips, and mucous membranes.
 

Adrenal Insufficiency Symptoms During an Addisonian Crisis

Because adrenal insufficiency symptoms usually progress slowly, they are usually ignored until a stressful event like an illness or an accident causes them to become worse. This is called an addisonian crisis, or acute adrenal insufficiency. In most cases, symptoms are severe enough that patients seek medical treatment before a crisis occurs. However, in about 25 percent of patients, adrenal insufficiency symptoms first appear during an addisonian crisis.
 
Symptoms of an addisonian crisis include:
 
  • Sudden penetrating pain in the lower back, abdomen, or legs
  • Severe vomiting and diarrhea
  • Dehydration
  • Low blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness.
     
If left untreated, an addisonian crisis can be fatal.
 

Adrenal Insufficiency Symptoms: Summary

The possible adrenal insufficiency symptoms mentioned above are not sure signs of adrenal insufficiency. Other problems can also cause these symptoms. Anyone with possible adrenal insufficiency symptoms should see their doctor. Only a doctor can diagnose and treat the problem.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD