The most common symptoms of adrenal disease — when to become more aware

Introduction:
The adrenal glands are among the smaller organs, but their importance to our health is enormous. They produce hormones that affect blood pressure, metabolism, stress response, as well as fluid balance. When their function is not right -- whether because of a tumor or other disorder -- the body can signal it with various symptoms. Some are unobtrusive, others quite typical. In this article, we summarize when you should pay attention.

1. Fatigue and weakness

They are among the most common and least specific symptoms. It can be general fatigue, decreased performance, muscle weakness or a feeling of “exhaustion for no reason”. Persistent fatigue can also signal adrenal insufficiency.

2. High blood pressure

• Pheochromocytoma or Conn's syndrome can cause long-term or suddenly worsening hypertension.
• Pressure fluctuations, headaches, palpitations or sweating are typical.

3. Unusual changes in body weight

• Weight gain in the face and torso, slimming of limbs, round face (“marigold”), fat on the nape — all this can point to Cushing's syndrome (excess cortisol).
• Conversely, unwanted weight loss, loss of appetite and weakness can be a sign malignancies or adrenal insufficiency.

4. Changes in the skin and pubic hair

• Dark skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation), primarily in folds or scars, can be a sign of chronic adrenal insufficiency.
• In women, excess androgens can cause increased body hair (hirsutism)acne, or irregular menstrual cycle.

5. Metabolism disorders

• Elevated blood sugar, impaired glucose tolerance or even the development of diabetes can be the result of an excess of cortisol.
• Tumors can also affect sodium and potassium levels -- sometimes significantly.

6. Psychological changes

• Irritability, anxiety, insomnia or, conversely, apathy and depression can be the result of hormonal imbalance.

7. Symptoms of hormonally “silent” tumors

Up to 70% of adrenal gland findings (so-called incidentalomas) are asymptomatic. They are revealed randomly, for example, during CT of the abdomen for another reason. However, even these tumors may have hidden hormonal activity — so it is important to always evaluate the findings professionally.

Conclusion:
Symptoms of adrenal disorders can be varied, often inconspicuous and easily confused with other ailments. If any of the above symptoms appear long-term or in combination, it is advisable to consult the situation with a general practitioner or endocrinologist. Early examination can lead to a simple solution -- and prevent complications.

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