Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

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Initial symptoms of Addison’s disease can include:

  • overwhelming exhaustion and lack of energy
  • loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss
  • dizziness on standing
  • low blood pressure
  • patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin
  • craving salty foods
  • feeling and being sick
  • muscle weakness with cramps
  • abdominal pain
  • abnormal drowsiness or tiredness (lethargy)
  • low mood (mild depression) or irritability
  • a frequent need to pee
  • increased thirst
  • difficulty concentrating
  • headaches
  • a slight temperature

Addison’s disease can be difficult to detect at first because early symptoms are similar to those of many other health conditions.  Some women with Addison’s disease may have irregular periods or miss periods completely. Women may also lose their pubic hair and the hair under their armpits. Children with Addison’s disease may go through puberty later than usual. Some people with Addison’s disease also develop low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). This can cause symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, confusion, anxiety and even unconsciousness (particularly in children).  If you are experiencing symptoms of Addison’s disease, see your GP so they can diagnose or rule out Addison’s disease. [1] 

[1] http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/addisons-disease/