Addison's Disease

Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare long-term endocrine disorder characterized by inadequate production of the steroid hormones cortisol and aldosterone by the outer layers of the adrenal glands. Symptoms generally develop slowly and may include abdominal pain, gastrointestinal abnormalities, weakness, weight loss, and darkening of the skin in certain areas. Under certain circumstances an adrenal crisis may occur, with low blood pressure, vomiting, lower back pain, and loss of consciousness, and rapid onset of symptoms indicates acute adrenal failure, a clinical emergency that can be triggered by stress such as an injury, surgery, or infection.