Addison's Disease

​Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient cortisol as well as a hormone called aldosterone.
Symptoms include fatigue, problems with the digestive system (nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, reduced appetite, weight loss), skin pigmentation often on the knuckles/gums/scars, mood changes, muscle spasms, joint pain, and dehydration. Another symptom which can impact the person significantly is low blood pressure leading to dizziness and even loss of consciousness in severe cases.
If you have Addison’s disease you may crave salty food, and experience irregular menstrual periods.
Onset of Addison’s disease is generally slow, but acute adrenal failure can develop suddenly. It is possible for people with Addison’s disease to experience a “crisis” where there is a sudden onset of severe pain (lower back, abdomen or legs), vomiting and diarrhoea, sudden loss of strength, dizziness and reduced consciousness. This is classed as a medical emergency. These symptoms are often triggered by stress or infection.
Reflexology can help by balancing hormones, reducing stress, boosting energy levels, and improving the immune system.
As a nurse, I have seen a couple of patients with Addison’s disease in crisis and it is incredibly debilitating.