The NHS is cautioning that during this time of year, it might be easy to confuse flu symptoms with those of a rare condition. Addison’s disease, also called primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism, is a rare disorder affecting the adrenal glands.
The adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, are small but vital organs that produce two essential hormones: cortisol and aldosterone. This condition arises when the outer layer of the adrenal glands (the adrenal cortex) is damaged, leading to reduced hormone production.
Addison’s disease and flu-like symptoms
The NHS highlights that the symptoms of Addison’s disease can often resemble other, more common illnesses. They explain: “In its early stages, symptoms of Addison’s disease can mimic those of other conditions, such as clinical depression or the flu.”
What are the signs and symptoms of Addison’s disease?
You may have low mood
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You may experience:
- overwhelming exhaustion and lack of energy
- loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss
- dizziness on standing
- low blood pressure (hypotension)
- patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin (hyperpigmentation)
- craving salty foods
- feeling and being sick
- muscle weakness with cramps
- abdominal pain
- abnormal drowsiness or tiredness (lethargy)
- low mood (mild clinical depression) or irritability
- a frequent need to pee
- increased thirst
- difficulty concentrating
- headaches
- a higher temperature than normal
- irregular periods or miss periods completely
- loss of pubic hair and the hair under your armpits
- low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) – this can cause symptoms like difficulty concentrating, confusion, anxiety and even unconsciousness (particularly in children).
Why do people get Addison’s disease?
The NHS explains: “Addison’s disease is usually the result of a problem with the immune system, which causes it to attack the outer layer of the adrenal gland (the adrenal cortex), disrupting the production of the steroid hormones aldosterone and cortisol.
“It’s not clear why this happens, but it’s responsible for 70% to 90% of cases in the UK. Other potential causes include conditions that can damage the adrenal glands, such as tuberculosis (TB), although this is uncommon in the UK.”
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How is Addison’s disease treated?
Experts advise that lifelong medication is necessary to replace the deficient hormones in Addison’s disease. With appropriate treatment, symptoms can be effectively managed, allowing many individuals to maintain an active lifestyle with minimal restrictions.
However, some individuals may experience challenges, particularly severe fatigue, which differs from typical tiredness. Additionally, associated health conditions such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may be present.
How is Addison’s disease diagnosed?
You may feel more tired than usual
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A GP will ask about your symptoms and review your medical history, it’s good to know if anyone in your family has an autoimmune disorder (a condition caused by a problem with their immune system).
The GP will examine your skin for any evidence of brownish discolouration (hyperpigmentation), particularly in certain areas, such as:
- the creases on your palm
- your elbow crease
- on any scars
- your lips and gums
The NHS stresses that hyperpigmentation does not occur in all cases of Addison’s disease however it could be a sign, combined with other symptoms. About 9,000 people in the UK have Addison’s disease, with over 300 new cases diagnosed each year.
It can affect people of any age, although it’s most common between the ages of 30 and 50. It’s also more common in women than men. You can find out more about how to get diagnosed here.