I recognize an Addison crisis by the following symptoms | The Addison crisis

I recognize an Addison crisis by the following symptoms

The Addison crisis is characterised by a variety of symptoms. These include, among others: There is also a frequent drop in blood pressure, which can lead to a state of shock. Hypoglycaemia and dehydration (too little water in the body) can also occur during an Addison crisis.

. A so-called pseudoperitonitis can also occur. This is a severe pain in the abdomen, which is normally caused by inflammation of the peritoneum.

In the Addison crisis, similar pain symptoms can occur without the presence of a corresponding inflammation – this is why it is also called “non-genuine” peritonitis or pseudoperitonitis. Patients who have already been diagnosed with an adrenal insufficiency should be especially aware of the above-mentioned symptoms. An immediate presentation to the doctor is then strongly recommended.

Often an Addison’s crisis with its typical symptoms develops, however, especially in people who have not yet been informed about the underfunction of their adrenal cortex. The symptoms can then be difficult for those affected to relate to or misinterpret. Especially when the Addison’s crisis occurs when the disease has not yet been diagnosed, the person affected may be at great risk. . – Clouding of consciousness ,

  • High temperature or fever,
  • Nausea or vomiting and
  • Diarrhea.

Therapy

An Addison crisis requires emergency treatment of the affected person. Among the most important measures are the clarification of the reasons for an Addison crisis. Therefore, an examination of the function of the adrenal gland and pituitary gland is carried out.

Finding the causes is an important part of the treatment in order to be able to effectively counteract future crisis situations. Information about the correct medication and dosage in stress situations is also part of the treatment process. If necessary, an emergency pen will be handed out to those affected for future stress situations.

This is a cortisone injection that can be used by the patients themselves in acute situations. The procedure for administering the emergency medication is explained in detail to the affected persons by the treating physician. – the administration of cortisol,

  • A fluid substitution,
  • Drugs to stabilize the circulation
  • And in some cases the administration of oxygen.

Duration and forecast

The duration and prognosis of an Addison crisis cannot be predicted across the board. People with Addison’s disease are often under intensive medical supervision and it may take some time for the body to recover. However, Addison’s disease can also lead to death, especially if left untreated or treated too late. For this reason, immediate initiation of therapy with special intensive care medicine is extremely important.

How dangerous can an Addison crisis become?

An Addison crisis is a life-threatening condition. Without therapy, the majority of people affected would die. Immediate treatment is therefore extremely important.

By administering cortisone, circulatory stabilising drugs and fluids, an attempt is made to remedy the cortisol deficiency in the body. Patients are usually monitored intensively during the treatment phase. In spite of therapeutic measures, especially if they begin much too late, in a few cases the patients can still die.