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Dita Faulkner
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Adrenal Conditions – Acute Adrenal Crisis

When the adrenal glands are not producing enough cortisol, a hormone, the body can experience what is called acute adrenal crisis.

There are two adrenal glands. They are located on top of the kidneys. The outer portion of this gland produces three hormones, one of them being cortisol. Cortisol is important because it aids in regulating the glucose levels and immune response. Additionally, cortisol stabilizes stress in the body. The release of cortisol into the body is controlled by the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain. Consequently, it is safe to say that cortisol is necessary for life.

Adrenal Crisis

According to the NIH (National Institute of Health), there are risks factors, but only to those who have already suffered adrenal or pituitary gland damage (such as, Addison’s disease) or those who have not received proper treatment for their adrenal insufficiency.

So when the above type of scenarios are already in place, the following risks factors can sometimes make matters worse: extreme dehydration, infection, physical stress, additional injury to the adrenal or pituitary gland, prematurely halting steroid treatment, major surgery or some kind of trauma.

We value and respect the experiences of all of our HerWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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