Addison's disease is a rare endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. It is caused by damage to the adrenal cortex, which can be from an autoimmune response, infection, tumors, or other issues. Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, weight changes, and hyperpigmentation of skin. Left untreated, it can cause an Addisonian crisis with severe low blood pressure and other dangerous symptoms. Treatment involves lifelong hormone replacement therapy and monitoring, especially during times of stress. Nursing care focuses on monitoring the patient, educating on treatment and crisis signs, and ensuring fluid and electrolyte balance.
The cortex produces THREE types of hormones: The glucocorticoid hormones (such as cortisol) maintain sugar (glucose) control, decrease (suppress) immune response , and help the body respond to stress. The mineralocorticoid hormones (such as aldosterone) regulate sodium and potassium balance. The sex hormones, androgens (male) and estrogens (female), affect sexual development and sex drive.
Treatment with replacement corticosteroids will control the symptoms of this disease. However, you will usually need to take these drugs for life. People often receive a combination of glucocorticoids (cortisone or hydrocortisone) and mineralocorticoids (fludrocortisone).
Hemodynamic stability: Family education is very important:
