Overview
Addison's disease is a rare condition. It develops when the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys, do not make enough of certain hormones. These hormones are important for normal body function. They help the body cope with stress, hold salt and water, and maintain blood pressure.
Addison's disease usually develops when part of the adrenal glands are destroyed by the body's defences, called the immune system, or by diseases such as tuberculosis or cancer. Some types of surgery and radiation treatments, bleeding caused by blood-thinning medicine, and injury to the gland from a blow to the back also can cause the disease.
You will probably need to take medicine for the rest of your life to treat your condition and help prevent an adrenal crisis. A crisis is a steep drop in blood pressure and blood sugar levels caused by extreme physical stress, such as an infection, an injury, surgery, or dehydration.
Over time, if you do not get treatment, too little adrenal hormone can cause other symptoms, such as too much skin pigment. You also may lose weight and be extremely tired.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter Q505 in the search box to learn more about "Addison's Disease: Care Instructions".