Three mths ago I was diagnosed with addisons. I am on 50mg of hydrocortizone a day. I am gaining weight.What can I do? Can I quit taking them? will it kill me?

By Anonymous May 18, 2011 - 8:01pm

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In 2007 I was hospitalized with unexplainable abdominal pain. My cortisol levels were a .01. Last year I had to have a IME done, and found out that when I left the hospital that I should see and endocrinologist which I did. Now that I am on hormones for Addisons, I am gaining weight. Yes, my blood pressure is normal now, and not running 90 over 60 or less. And yes, I am able to hold food down, but I have gained 15+ pounds. Is is possible that my cortisol levels are normal at a .01 - .10? And my niece told me that it is uber rare that a woman have addisons because the female is usually the carrier. What else can you tell me about this disease?

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Rosa Cabrera RN

Hi Anonymous,

I'm very sorry you're struggling with either taking your meds or staying off them. Unfortunately, Addison's disease is an adrenal disease that affects men and women alike and results when your adrenal glands are damaged, producing insufficient amounts of the hormone cortisol and often aldosterone as well.

Treatment for Addison's disease involves corticosteroids and/ or androgen replacement therapy. You should not stop taking the meds without consulting your doctor first, since Addison's disease can potentially be fatal. Hydrocortisones do cause weight gain and can be difficult to cope with. However, you can discuss Androgen Replacement therapy, or perhaps a lower dose of Hydrocortisone- if possible in your situation.

There is a lot more that you can learn about Addison's Disease found here: https://www.empowher.com/condition/addisons-disease/definition

Hope this helps & best of luck to you,

Rosa

May 19, 2011 - 6:34am