Hypoadrenalism

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Hypoadrenalism (pronunciation: /ˌhaɪpoʊəˈdriːnəlɪzəm/) is a medical condition characterized by inadequate production of hormones by the adrenal glands.

Etymology

The term "Hypoadrenalism" is derived from the Greek words "hypo" meaning "under" or "below", "adrenal" referring to the adrenal glands, and "ism" denoting a condition or disease.

Definition

Hypoadrenalism, also known as Addison's disease, is a disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of their hormones. These hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone, play a crucial role in the body's response to stress, maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function, and regulating the body's salt and water balance.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hypoadrenalism can include fatigue, body aches, unexplained weight loss, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, loss of body hair, and skin discoloration.

Causes

Hypoadrenalism can be caused by problems in the adrenal glands themselves (primary adrenal insufficiency), issues with the pituitary gland (secondary adrenal insufficiency), or damage due to surgery or infection.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hypoadrenalism typically involves blood tests to measure the levels of adrenal hormones in the body. An ACTH stimulation test may also be used to assess the adrenal glands' response to the adrenocorticotropic hormone.

Treatment

Treatment for hypoadrenalism usually involves hormone replacement therapy to replace the hormones that the adrenal glands are not making. This can include taking synthetic glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, or both.

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