The NHS is warning that during this season, it might be easy to mistake flu symptoms for those of a rare health condition. Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism, is a rare disorder that affects the adrenal glands.
These small but crucial organs sit above the kidneys and produce two vital hormones: cortisol and aldosterone.
The condition occurs when the outer layer of the adrenal glands (the adrenal cortex) is damaged. This can lead to a decrease in hormone production, reports the Mirror.
Addison’s disease and flu-like symptoms
The NHS emphasises that the symptoms of Addison’s disease can often mimic other, more common illnesses. They clarify: “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 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.”
How is Addison’s disease treated?
Experts recommend lifelong medication to replace the deficient hormones in Addison’s disease. With the right treatment, symptoms can be effectively managed, allowing many individuals to lead an active lifestyle with minimal restrictions.
However, some people may face challenges, particularly severe fatigue, which is different from typical tiredness. Additionally, related health conditions such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may also be present.
So, how is Addison’s disease diagnosed?
A GP will inquire about your symptoms and examine your medical history, it’s beneficial to know if anyone in your family has an autoimmune disorder (a condition caused by a problem with their immune system).
The GP will check your skin for any signs of brownish discolouration (hyperpigmentation), especially in certain areas, such as:
- The creases on your palm
- Your elbow crease
- On any scars
- Your lips and gums
The NHS emphasises that hyperpigmentation does not occur in all cases of Addison’s disease but it could be a sign, combined with other symptoms. Approximately 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 prevalent in women than men.
You can find out more about how to get diagnosed here.