Published on: 7/15/2025
What are real signs of adrenal insufficiency?
Adrenal insufficiency can cause tiredness, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin.
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Explanation
Adrenal insufficiency happens when the adrenal glands do not make enough of certain hormones. This can lead to several symptoms.
Common Signs:
- Tiredness and Weakness: People often feel very tired and weak because their body is not getting the hormones it needs.
- Weight Loss: Without enough hormones, the body may lose weight even if the person is eating normally.
- Low Blood Pressure: This can make a person feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up quickly.
- Skin Changes: The skin might become darker, especially in areas like scars or skin folds.
These symptoms happen because the adrenal glands are not working well. If you think you have these symptoms, it is important to talk to a doctor who can help find out what is happening.
(References)
- Martin-Grace J, Dineen R, Sherlock M, & Thompson CJ. (2020). Adrenal insufficiency: Physiology, clinical presentation and .... Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry, 32035851.
- Husebye ES, Pearce SH, Krone NP, & Kämpe O. (2021). Adrenal insufficiency. Lancet (London, England), 33484633.
- Hahner S, Ross RJ, Arlt W, Bancos I, Burger-Stritt S, Torpy DJ, et al. (2021). Adrenal insufficiency. Nature reviews. Disease primers, 33707469.
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