Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis & Management of Cushing's & Addison's Disease
A clear guide to adrenal gland disorders, including Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease, conditions of excess or deficient adrenal hormone production.
Treatment usually begins with
Hormone Testing
Imaging
Targeted Hormone Therapy
Long-Term Monitoring
Evaluation identifies whether adrenal hormone levels are too high or too low, guiding medication, hormone replacement or, when needed, surgical treatment.
You may need this evaluated if...
Evaluation for an adrenal disorder is recommended when these signs appear:
- Unexplained weight gain with rounding of the face, or unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue and muscle weakness
- Skin changes, such as easy bruising or darkening
- Low blood pressure with dizziness, or difficulty managing an acute illness
With the right diagnosis and hormone-based treatment, both excess and deficient adrenal hormone conditions can be very effectively managed.
What is Adrenal Gland Disorders (Cushing's & Addison's Disease)?
Adrenal gland disorders include Cushing's syndrome, caused by excess cortisol, and Addison's disease, caused by insufficient adrenal hormone production, both requiring specialist hormone testing and long-term, carefully tailored treatment.
Two Opposite Hormone Problems
Cushing's involves too much cortisol, while Addison's disease involves too little adrenal hormone.
Symptoms Can Develop Gradually
Both conditions often develop slowly, making early recognition important.
Hormone Replacement Is Lifelong for Addison's
Addison's disease requires ongoing hormone replacement, similar in principle to insulin for Type 1 diabetes.
Careful Management During Illness
People with Addison's disease need specific guidance on adjusting medication during illness or stress.
Common Symptoms
- Weight change with a rounded face or unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Skin darkening or easy bruising
- Low blood pressure or dizziness on standing
- High blood pressure or blood sugar in Cushing's syndrome
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of genetic, hormonal and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Cortisol & Adrenal Hormone Testing
Measures hormone levels at specific times to assess adrenal function.
Stimulation or Suppression Testing
Specialised tests that confirm excess or deficient adrenal hormone production.
Imaging (CT/MRI)
Identifies any adrenal or pituitary abnormality contributing to the condition.
Electrolyte & Blood Pressure Assessment
Supports the diagnosis, particularly for Addison's disease.
Treatment Approaches
Medical & Hormonal Management
- Hormone replacement therapy for Addison's disease
- Medication to reduce cortisol production for Cushing's syndrome from certain causes
- Education on adjusting medication during illness for Addison's disease
- Regular monitoring of hormone levels and associated health effects
Advanced & Procedural Care
Surgical removal of an adrenal or pituitary tumor is the definitive treatment when a growth is identified as the underlying cause.
Treatment decisions are based on hormone levels, imaging and your overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly helps protect your long-term hormonal and metabolic health.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- Stable adrenal hormone levels being monitored on treatment
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Severe weakness, vomiting, low blood pressure or collapse during an illness (possible adrenal crisis)
Not Sure What You Need?
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