Do you also experience sudden fatigue, sudden weight gain, and sometimes confusion? We often forget about these things, thinking that they are normal. But sometimes there may be a reason behind this that you don't even think about. Today, let's talk about a small but very important part of our body, the adrenal glands, and the problems that arise from them.
What are these adrenal glands?
Simply put, the adrenal glands are two triangular-shaped glands located above our kidneys, like two little hats. Although they are small in size, they perform a very important function in our body. That is, they produce hormones that help maintain balance in our body.
Think of it this way: our body is like a complex engine. For this engine to work properly, it needs to have the right amount of different things. Similarly, these hormones help control our metabolism, blood pressure, immune system, and how we deal with stress.
There are three main types of hormones produced by these glands:
- Cortisol: A key hormone that helps us cope with stress.
- Adrenaline: The hormone that prepares our body for an emergency.
- Aldosterone: A hormone that controls our blood pressure and the level of salt and water in the body.
Adrenal gland-related conditions occur when these hormones are produced in excess or in deficiency .
What are the most common adrenal gland diseases?
There are several of these conditions. Let's understand the main ones a little more clearly. For ease of understanding, I will put this in a table .
| Condition | Simply put, this is what happens. |
|---|---|
| Addison's disease | The body does not produce enough of the hormones cortisol and/or aldosterone. |
| Cushing syndrome | Excessive increase in the level of the hormone cortisol in the body. |
| Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) | Congenital absence or deficiency of enzymes needed to produce hormones. |
| Hyperaldosteronism | Excessive production of the hormone aldosterone in the body. |
| Virilization | Excessive production of male sex hormones in the body. This is clearly seen in women and prepubescent boys. |
In addition, conditions can also be caused by tumors in the adrenal glands. But don't worry, most of these tumors are non-cancerous (benign). However, in some rare cases, cancer (adrenocortical carcinoma) can also occur.
What are the symptoms of these diseases?
Symptoms depend on which hormone is low or high. Let's look at what symptoms occur when each hormone level changes.
If cortisol levels are elevated (such as Cushing's syndrome)
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Enlargement of the upper body | The face, neck, and abdomen become larger while the arms and legs are thin. |
| Extreme fatigue | Feeling extremely tired even without doing anything. |
| High blood pressure and diabetes | Increased blood pressure and sugar levels. |
| Skin changes | Thinning of the skin, easy bruising from even a small injury. Wide, purple-colored stretch marks appear on the abdomen. |
If aldosterone levels are elevated
- High blood pressure
- Low blood potassium levels (Hypokalemia)
- Feeling weak in the body
- Muscle pain and cramps (muscle spasms)
If male hormone levels increase (in women)
If this condition occurs in women or in prepubescent boys, male characteristics begin to emerge.
- Facial hair growth
- Hair loss (baldness)
- Acne formation
- Deepening of the voice (becoming more like a male voice)
- Muscle growth
The important thing is that these symptoms can also be seen in other diseases. Therefore, if you have these symptoms, it is very important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Why do these diseases occur?
There may be several reasons for this.
- Over or underproduction of hormones by the adrenal glands themselves.
- A problem with another gland, such as the pituitary gland in our brain, can affect the functioning of the adrenal glands.
- Some medications we take (for example, steroid medications) can cause changes in hormone levels.
- Sometimes these conditions can also occur due to genetic mutations.
Often, even doctors can't say exactly why some people get these diseases and others don't.
How is the disease diagnosed and treated?
When you go to the doctor, he will first ask you about your symptoms and do a physical exam. Then, he will order several tests to check the hormone levels in your blood, urine, and saliva.
If there is a suspicion of tumors, scans such as a CT scan (Computed Tomography) or MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be performed.
In most cases, you may be referred to an endocrinologist.
Treatment options depend on your specific condition. Some conditions may require medication to correct hormone levels. In cases where there are lumps , surgery or radiation therapy may be necessary.
The best thing is, if many of these conditions are identified early and treated properly , they can be successfully managed and lead good lives.
When should you see a doctor?
Whether you have been diagnosed with adrenal gland disease or not, be aware of the following symptoms. If you have any of these, see a doctor.
| Be aware of these symptoms. |
|---|
| Weight loss for no reason. |
| Especially the upper part of the body becomes larger. |
| Feeling too tired to complete the day's work. |
| Having persistent or severe pain. |
| Skin changes (easy bruising, stretch marks). |
| Unusual changes in body hair growth. |
When should you go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU)?
If you have a condition that causes low cortisol levels, such as Addison's disease, you can develop a life-threatening condition called an adrenal crisis . This is when the body's cortisol levels suddenly drop dangerously low.
If the following symptoms appear, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital without delay.
| Emergency! (Emergency Signs) |
|---|
| Sudden, severe pain in the lower body (abdomen, back, legs). |
| Severe vomiting and diarrhea. |
| Feeling extremely weak. |
| Confusion and loss of consciousness (confusion). |
| Low blood sugar levels (Hypoglycemia). |
| Very low blood pressure. |
If you have adrenal insufficiency, ask your doctor about an injectable glucocorticoid that can be used in an emergency. It is important that you and your family are informed about how to take it.
Take-Home Message
- The adrenal glands are a very important organ that helps maintain hormonal balance in our body.
- Whether the hormones in these glands are increased or decreased, various symptoms can occur.
- If you have suspicious symptoms, don't guess and definitely see a doctor.
- Many of these diseases can be successfully managed with early detection and proper treatment.
- If emergency symptoms arise (such as adrenal crisis), go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately without delay.
- Be well informed about your medical condition. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor questions.
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