Adrenal disorders or adrenal gland disorders are conditions that prevent the adrenal glands from functioning correctly. The adrenal glands are located on the top of each kidney and work to product various hormones amongst other things. The disorders are generally known for causing a decreased amount of the needed hormones produced in this area as well as the adrenal glands being either hypoactive or hyperactive. While the symptoms can be hard to trace back to these glands, the disorders can be life threatening.
The adrenal glands have two different parts, the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. When these two parts are not working as they should, there may be a variety of conditions caused. Because the two parts are associated with each other but also with other organs, there is a long list of potential consequences of them not working in sync.
Pheochromocytoma is a tumor that arises inside of the adrenal glands. They can be found in other areas of the body such as the bladder and the heart but are most often found in the adrenal glands. This is a genetic disorder and is found mostly in those between the ages of 30 and 60. The symptoms include headaches, racing heart, excess sweating, rapid breathing, pain in the lower chest, anxiety, nervousness, amongst others. The main cause is not known but there is a genetics factor. There are several ways to treat this condition including surgery, in which in some cases, one or both of the glands are removed. A patient can also opt for chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Cushing’s syndrome occurs when the adrenal glands produce too many corticosteroids. This can be caused by a number of things including an excess of the hormone, corticotrophin, which controls the adrenal gland. It can also be caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland. There are cases that are caused by taking synthetic glucocorticoids. The symptoms of this condition usually include weight gain in the facial area or above the neck, skin changes, easy bruising, additional growth of hair above the neck and in the chest or thigh area, weakness and fatigue, loss of muscle mass, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, menstrual disorders and decreased fertility in women, and decreased sex drive. The treatment of this disorder depends on what is causing it. There are surgical methods as well as being given synthetic cortisol or even radiotherapy.
Addison’s disease is a disorder that is characterized by the immune system gradually destroying the adrenal cortex. Generally by the time this disease is discovered, the cortex has already been destroyed. It is caused by the cortex not producing enough cortisol which is a result of an autoimmune disorder. Its victims experience weight loss, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure and dizziness. This is treated with various drugs such as replacement corticosteroids or glucocorticoids.
Another one of many adrenal disorders includes pituitary adenoma which is a tumor that is located at the base of the brain causing symptoms such as headaches, hormonal imbalances, vision disturbances, and so on. The route of treatment for this disorder includes surgery, various medicines, and as a last resort, radiation therapy.
