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Symptoms of glucocorticoid deficiency (having not enough hormones that are classified as glucocorticoids, and mostly consisting of cortisol) vary depending on the underlying cause and severity—common signs and symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, decreased appetite, low blood pressure, salt cravings, dizziness upon standing (orthostatic hypotension), muscle aches and pains ...
Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones.The adrenal glands—also referred to as the adrenal cortex—normally secrete glucocorticoids (primarily cortisol), mineralocorticoids (primarily aldosterone), and androgens.
Treatment for CAH involves hormone replacement therapy to provide adequate levels of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Regular monitoring is necessary to optimize hormone balance and minimize potential complications associated with long-term glucocorticoid exposure. [1]
Low blood sugar and hyponatremia are possible; however, blood potassium levels typically remain normal because affected patients are deficient in glucocorticoids rather than mineralocorticoids because of their intact renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. ACTH may be undetectable in blood tests, and cortisol is abnormally low. [1]
A complication seen in untreated Addison's disease and other types of primary adrenal insufficiency is the adrenal crisis, a medical emergency in which low glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid levels result in hypovolemic shock and symptoms such as vomiting and fever.
Insulin resistance, or low insulin sensitivity, happens when cells throughout the body don’t respond properly to the hormone insulin, especially cells in muscles, fat and the liver. Insulin is a ...
Excessive glucocorticoid levels resulting from administration as a drug or hyperadrenocorticism have effects on many systems. Some examples include inhibition of bone formation, suppression of calcium absorption (both of which can lead to osteoporosis ), delayed wound healing, muscle weakness, and increased risk of infection.
Cortisol is a steroid hormone in the glucocorticoid class of hormones and a stress hormone. When used as medication, it is known as hydrocortisone. It is produced in many animals, mainly by the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex in an adrenal gland. [1] In other tissues, it is produced in lower quantities. [2]