Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month: Addison's Disease.
Only 1 in 100,000 individuals have this disease. Addison's Disease is a rare autoimmune condition that affects the adrenal glands. These glands play a pivotal role in regulating hormones in the body. When these glands don't produce enough hormones, Addison's Disease occurs. In this disease, the adrenal glands have made an insufficient amount of a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is essential for everyday health due to the fact that it regulates the body's response to stress. Cortisol is also responsible for regulating your body's use of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. It aids in regulating blood pressure and helps with cardiovascular function. There are two forms of Addison's Disease: Primary Adrenal Insufficiency : The issue rests solely on the adrenal glands (it started there and is contained there). Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency : The issue started elsewhere in the body, such as the pituitary gland. How is Addison's Disease considered au...