Case of the Month #52 The Shocked Patient

Published 15/08/2024

What are the signs and symptoms of Primary Adrenal Insufficiency?

  • Dizziness 

  • Nausea and vomiting 

  • Salt craving 

  • Muscle cramps 

  • Fatigue 

  • Abdominal pain 

  • Weight loss 

  • Mood disturbance 

  • Decreased axillary/pubic hair 

  • Hyperpigmentation 

  • (Postural) hypotension 

 

Symptoms are vague which leads to a delay in diagnosis of >1 year for >50% of people with primary adrenal insufficiency1,2. They become apparent when >90% of the adrenal cortex has been destroyed.