Skin abnormalities can precede the development of other symptoms by months or years, but do not occur in every person. This discoloration most commonly occurs near scars, by skin creases such as the knuckles, and on the mucous membranes such as the gums. Another common initial symptom of Addison’s disease is the development of patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin (hyperpigmentation). In rare cases, the symptoms of Addison’s disease can develop rapidly causing a condition called acute adrenal failure.įatigue is the most common symptom of Addison’s disease. This often leads to delays in the proper diagnosis of Addison’s disease. Symptoms usually develop slowly over time and are usually vague and common to many conditions (nonspecific). The symptoms of Addison’s disease can vary from one individual to another. In most cases, Addison’s disease occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands causing slowly progressive damage to the adrenal cortex.

The symptoms of Addison’s usually develop slowly, but sometimes can develop rapidly, a serious condition called acute adrenal failure. Increased excretion of water and low blood pressure (hypotension) can lead to extremely low concentrations of water in the body (dehydration). Behavior and mood changes may also occur in some individuals with Addison’s disease. Major symptoms include fatigue, gastrointestinal abnormalities, and changes in skin color (pigmentation). The symptoms of classic Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, result from the insufficient production of these two hormones, cortisol and aldosterone.

Stay Informed With NORD’s Email NewsletterĪddison’s disease is a rare disorder characterized by inadequate production of the steroid hormones cortisol and aldosterone by the two outer layers of cells of the adrenal glands (adrenal cortex).

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Cortisol produced by adrenal cortex