Addison's Disease is a health condition where the adrenal glands (the ones above your kidneys) don't produce enough essential hormones, specifically cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones have important functions in your body. Cortisol helps in responding to stress, controls blood sugars and regulates your immune system while aldosterone controls blood pressure by managing salt and water balance in your body.
In case these hormone levels are extremely low, it can cause symptoms like extreme exhaustion, weight loss, muscle weakness, low blood pressure and darkening of the skin. This condition could get worse over time and, if not treated, could result in an Addisonian crisis - a major crisis where the body reacts severely to the lack of hormones, potentially leading to severe abdominal pain, nausea, deep weakness and even shock.
Addison's Disease is relatively uncommon and can affect anyone but is most prevalent among adults between 30 and 50 years of age. The primary cause is generally an autoimmune response where the immune system attacks the adrenal glands. Treatment usually includes hormone replacement therapy to control symptoms and replenish those missing hormones. This allows many with the condition to live active normal lives.
Addison's Disease occurs when your adrenal glands that are situated just above the kidneys do not make enough hormones. Understanding why this occurs is essential for managing and treating the condition.
Among the most common reasons for Addison's Disease are :
Autoimmune Disorders: This is the most common cause of Addison's Disease. The immune system attacks the adrenal glands by accident, damaging cells that produce aldosterone and cortisol. This kind of attack is called autoimmune Addison's Disease.
Infections: The adrenal glands can be attacked by certain kinds of infections as well. Addison's Disease was historically caused by tuberculosis. It is still in some areas of the world. Other infections that can cause adrenal damage are fungi and HIV/AIDS.
Cancer: Occasionally, cancer cells from other body parts spread to the adrenal glands, impairing their function.
Genetic Defects: Rare genetic disorders may also damage the adrenal glands. For example, adrenoleukodystrophy affects the gland's ability to process fats and damages the adrenal cortex.
Surgical Removal: When the adrenal glands are taken out surgically because of other medical issues, Addison's Disease could develop.
Other Autoimmune Diseases: Having another autoimmune condition like type 1 diabetes, thyroid problems or some kinds of vitiligo also raises the likelihood of autoimmune Addison's Disease
Addison's Disease is difficult to diagnose as the symptoms often develop slowly and can be vague. Recognising the signs early can facilitate timely treatment and management of the disease.
The most noticeable signs and symptoms associated with Addison's Disease are :
The most prevalent symptom, where individuals feel extremely tired and may find it hard to perform everyday activities.
People often have general muscle weakness accompanied by muscle aches.
Unexpected weight loss and reduced appetite are common in Addison's Disease.
This could appear in areas not exposed to the sun like the folds of the skin, gums and scars - a disease called hyperpigmentation.
This may cause dizziness or loss of consciousness, especially when standing up suddenly.
A unique symptom where people want to eat salty foods because the body can not retain enough sodium.
These include nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and vomiting.
Mood changes such as feeling sad, irritated or angry are common.
Women may notice reduced body hair.
It may make people feel shaky or anxious and is also called hypoglycemia.
Women may experience irregular or ceased menstrual periods.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Addison's Disease using evidence-based Ayurveda. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: Scientifically-formulated mixtures that restore the body’s energy balance and promote emotional stability.
Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness-Practices: These calming activities promote mental health and overall wellness.
Ayurvedic Treatments: Therapies like Panchakarma and therapeutic massages to cleanse the body and create emotional balance.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Expert recommendations on changing your eating and lifestyle choices for improved health.
Ayurvedic medicines offer an all natural way to manage Addison's Disease by restoring hormonal equilibrium and improving the adrenal gland function. Ayurvedic herbs possess the ability to improve adrenal health and relieve symptoms of the condition.
The Ayurvedic herbs that are generally used for Addison's Disease include:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha has adaptogenic properties that stabilise cortisol levels and relieve stress on the adrenal glands. It also improves energy and overall wellbeing.
Bhumiamla (Phyllanthus niruri): This herb helps with liver health and detoxification, indirectly helping the adrenal glands. Additionally, it boosts the immune system of individuals with autoimmune disorders of Addison's Disease.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound that can boost cortisol production to help with low hormone levels.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice root may mimic certain adrenal hormones. It compensates for decreased cortisol production but must be used under the supervision of an Ayurvedic expert to avoid side effects.
Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is an adaptogen that helps in reducing stress and stabilising cortisol levels. It also functions as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum): It contains compounds that may regulate hormone balance and support adrenal function. It's also believed to help manage blood glucose levels, which might be helpful for Addison's Disease patients.
Yes, stress can worsen Addison's Disease symptoms by stressing the adrenal glands more. Stress management via meditation and yoga is often recommended as per Ayurveda.
The symptoms of Addison's Disease generally develop slowly over months or years as the adrenal glands gradually lose their ability to function properly.
Addison's Disease can be genetic, especially when linked with autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes. However, most cases are caused by autoimmune responses unrelated to genetic factors.
Ayurveda can help manage the signs and symptoms of Addison's Disease & improve quality of life through natural herbs and lifestyle modifications.
An Ayurvedic diet for Addison's Disease must include sodium-rich foods and balanced nutrients to support adrenal function and compensate for salt loss.
Gentle yoga poses that do not overly strain the body (such as the child's pose and seated forward bend) may help with stress management and improved circulation.
An Addisonian crisis is a life threatening condition. Preventive measures include regular medication, stress management and closely monitoring any signs of deterioration of health.
Ayurveda recommends Panchakarma therapy for detoxification and strengthening the body alongside certain herbal medicines to support adrenal health.
Ayurvedic herbs like turmeric paste and aloe vera can be used topically to lighten the skin hyperpigmentation naturally.
Long-term strategies for managing Addison's Disease include regular intake of adaptogenic herbs, stress management and balanced diet for good adrenal health.
Yes, lifestyle changes including adequate rest, decreased stress, and balanced diet are essential for coping with Addison's Disease and improving prognosis.
