On the other hand, high levels of cortisol cause the pituitary gland to decrease ACTH secretion, which slows cortisol production.Ĭortisol plays many vital roles and is essential to many body functions because it: When cortisol levels are too low, the pituitary secretes the stimulating hormone adrenocorticotropin (ACTH). The workings of the pituitary are governed by a brain structure called the hypothalamus. The amount of cortisol released by your adrenal glands is closely monitored by the master gland of your endocrine system, the pituitary, which is located below the brain in the base of your skull. The hormone cortisolĬortisol is produced by the outer layer of your adrenal gland, called the adrenal cortex. Many symptoms can mimic other diseases, so diagnosis can be delayed. These symptoms can develop quickly (especially in children and teenagers), or progress slowly over years.

mood swings, mental confusion or loss of consciousness.

irregular or no menstrual periods in women.

increased pigmentation of the skin, particularly around scars and bony areas.hypoglycaemia – low blood sugar levels (especially in children).The symptoms of Addison's disease can include any or all of the following: You cannot produce enough cortisol and, usually, also cannot produce enough aldosterone. They include cortisol, aldosterone and supplementary sex hormones.If you have Addison's disease, it is mainly your adrenal cortex that is affected. The adrenal cortex (the outer part) also makes important hormones, the corticosteroids. Addison's disease is caused by the inability of the adrenal glands to make enough regulating hormones.Īdrenaline is the best known of the hormones that are made by the adrenal glands in the adrenal medulla (the central part of the gland).

These glands form part of the endocrine system, which works with the nervous system and the immune system to help your body cope with different events and stresses. The human body has two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney. Addison's disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) is a rare and progressive (worsening) disorder that affects one in every 10,000 people.

Disorder of the adrenal glands