Page 42 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

Symptoms of Addison’s Disease
Chronic weakness and fatigue are classic signs that the adrenal glands are not functioning
properly. Vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fever, sweating, weight loss, low blood
pressure, muscle weakness, mood changes, and anxiety are also symptoms of Addison’s
disease. Another common and noticeable symptom in some people with the disease is the
darkening of the skin, even in areas not exposed to the sun. This hyperpigmentation of
the skin is due to the pituitary’s response to the drop in cortisol levels. It responds to this
drop by trying to compensate by producing another hormone that acts as a precursor for
a beta endorphin called melanocyte stimulating hormone, or MSH. MSH stimulates the
body’s production of melanin, which is what gives skin a bronze-colored tan when
exposed to the sun. However, in the case of someone with Addison’s disease, MSH isn’t
just being produced when out in the sun.

Addison’s disease can result in more serious, life-threatening symptoms like adrenal
crisis. This is when the body is experiencing serious adrenal insufficiency. Some
indicators of an adrenal crisis include vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the lower
back/legs/abdomen, lethargy, fever, convulsions, fainting, low blood glucose, low sodium
levels, elevated calcium levels, and elevated potassium levels. These symptoms require
immediate medical attention because they may result in fatal complications.

Triggers

Addison’s disease is sometimes described as an autoimmune disease that is often
associated with the onset of other autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s and Celiac
disease.

In fact, Addison’s can be a manifestation of undiagnosed celiac disease. Addison’s disease
is thought to be a higher risk for those with certain cancers, those who take blood thinning
medications, those who have had surgery to remove parts of the adrenal glands, those
who have chronic infections, and those with other autoimmune diseases. In short,
stressors can trigger Addison’s disease in susceptible persons.

Genetics play a small role when it comes to the causes of Addison’s disease. There have
been links discovered between the development of this disease and other issues like
hypothyroidism, vitiligo, and type one diabetes.

Worldwide, one of the most common infections to trigger Addison’s disease is
tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that affects the lungs, but infection can
spread to other areas of the body as well. If the tuberculosis infection spreads to the
adrenal glands, Addison’s disease can develop. Other infections may also trigger the
disease.

Diseases like adrenoleukodystrophy or amyloidosis can lead to damage to the adrenal
glands, and in turn, cause Addison’s disease to develop. Cushing’s syndrome treatments

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