Adrenal Fatigue & Exhaustion

Explanation

This is a condition resulting from adrenal hypo-function and is characterized by increasing fatigue and weakness, weight loss, dehydration, intestinal upsets, and abnormal pigmentation of skin and mucous membranes.

Considerations

Atrophy of the adrenal cortical tissue occurs in about 70 percent of these cases. The etiology is unknown. The biologically important products of the adrenal cortex are cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol deficiency produces reduction of resistance to stress, trauma, and infection. Cardiac output is reduced and circulatory failure may occur. Aldosterone deficiency results in severe dehydration, increased plasma concentration, hypotension, circulatory collapse and metabolic acidosis.

Treatment

Standard medical therapy with hydrocortisone may be lifesaving in acute adrenal insufficiency. A delay may result in patient’s death, particularly if hypoglycemia is present. In incipient and chronic cases where crisis is not imminent, the following is recommended.

Supporting Products