Page 43 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

can lead to adrenal gland damage. Cushing’s syndrome is characterized by extremely high
levels of cortisol in the body, so medications that lower cortisol, may create the opposite
problem.

Addison’s and Stress

Although some have argued that chronic stress and anxiety are the cause of Addison’s
disease, this is not necessarily true. However, stress does nothing good for the body, and
especially not for the adrenal glands. For someone with Addison’s disease, chronic stress
may worsen their condition. Negative emotions that result from stress and anxiety can
weaken the body’s ability to deal with diseases like Addison’s. Some patients with this
disease claim that they notice a great reduction in their symptoms when they pray,
meditate, and practice controlled breathing techniques.

Those dealing with Addison’s disease may have a harder time coping with stress because
their body is already not making enough cortisol, a hormone responsible for helping the
body cope with stress. Therefore, it is vitally important that those with this autoimmune
disease learn to manage stress, as too much could create an adrenal crisis. If you have
Addison’s disease and are going through periods of physical, mental, or emotional stress,
it is important to pay attention to your body and watch for signs of adrenal crisis. These
signs include vomiting, sudden low blood pressure, muscle pain, or a loss of
consciousness.

Treatments

Frequently, the treatment for Addison’s disease involves medication. Hormone replace
therapy may also be used to improve the levels of cortisol and other hormones in the body.
An oral medication to replace cortisol may be prescribed, as well as a medication to
replace the hormone aldosterone.

Due to the potential serious nature of this disease, patients should keep extra medication
on hand. Even missing a day of medication can have a negative impact. For those at high
risk of developing life-threatening complications from Addison’s disease, an injectable
may be needed in case of emergencies.

There is no known cure for Addison’s disease, but early diagnosis and treatment can go a
long way in improving the quality of life for those with this condition. When a person with
Addison’s disease receives proper care and treatment, combined with stress management
techniques and a healthy lifestyle, the outlook for this autoimmune disease can be good.

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