Addison’s disease is also called Adrenal insufficiency. This is a rare disease but is diagnosed when the adrenals output falls below standard levels for mineral and glucocorticoids. Addison’s Disease is usually caused by an autoimmune disease where stress causes adrenal fatigue.
Symptoms of Addison’s Disease
With Addison’s disease, the symptoms are usually gradual and can include the following:
- Low Energy
- Joint Pain
- Abdominal Pain
- Weight Loss
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Electrolyte Imbalance
- Headaches
- Depression
- Night Sweats
- Low Libido
- Digestive Issues
- Missed Menstrual or Irregular Periods [women]
- Dizziness / Lightheaded
What Is the Cause of an Autoimmune Reaction?
- High levels of stress
- Poor diet
- Lack of sleep
- Lack of exercise or too much exercise
- Environmental toxins
How Is Addison’s Disease Diagnosed?
Usually through blood work looking at adrenal function, brain function, thyroid function, etc.
Treatment for Addison’s Disease.
Treatment for Addisons’s disease can include a variety of dietary and lifestyle changes combined with natural supplements. In some cases, medication is needed.
Dietary Changes
- No caffeine
- No sugar or artificial sweeteners or others like high fructose corn syrup
- No alcohol
- No processed foods
- No refined oils or trans fats
- Probiotics
- Healthy fats like coconut oil and avocados
- Organic proteins like chicken, fish, meat, and turkey
- High fiber
- Vegetables
Lifestyle Changes
- Reduce stress
- Light exercise nothing that will raise the heart rate
- Sleep should be a priority
Herbs and Supplements That Can Help
- Vitamin C and B vitamins
- Phosphatidylserine
- Zinc
- Potassium
- Selenium
- Ashwagandha
- Licorice root
The herbs ashwagandha and licorice root work well as adaptogens.
Medication
Sometimes people may need actual thyroid medication along with hormones, and/or glandulars to help decrease the symptoms of the autoimmune portion of the disease.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you have the symptoms of Addison’s disease, schedule an appointment. At Burns Integrative Wellness Center, we will work with you to determine the right treatment options.