🔅 ADDISON DISEASE
– This is a condition where the adrenal glands (the small organs that sit on top of the kidneys) do not produce enough hormones, such as cortisol and aldosterone.
– These hormones help to regulate the body's response to stress, blood pressure, blood sugar, and electrolyte balance.
– The cause of Addison disease is usually an autoimmune disorder that damages the adrenal glands, but it can also be due to infections, tumors, genetic defects, or medications.
– The symptoms of Addison disease include: fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, salt craving, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, darkening of the skin, low blood sugar, or mood changes.
– The diagnosis of Addison disease is based on the medical history, physical examination, blood tests (such as cortisol level or ACTH stimulation test), urine tests (such as sodium and potassium levels), or imaging tests (such as CT scan or MRI).
– The treatment of Addison disease involves: taking hormone replacement therapy (such as hydrocortisone or fludrocortisone) to restore the normal levels of adrenal hormones.
– The prevention of Addison disease is not possible in most cases, but it may help to avoid triggers (such as infections or stress) that may worsen the condition.
– The dietary recommendations for Addison disease are: to eat a balanced and nutritious diet that provides enough calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals; increase salt intake to prevent low blood pressure; avoid foods that may interfere with hormone absorption (such as grapefruit or licorice); and take supplements if needed.
