ADDISON’S DISEASE
PROBLEM
Addison’s disease has many symptoms, including weakness and fatigue, fainting or dizziness, poor appetite, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, skin discoloration, and low blood pressure, as well as cravings for salty foods.
CAUSE
Addison’s is most commonly caused by the body’s unusual ability to attack its own tissues, called autoimmunity. This results in inadequate amounts of cortisol and/or aldosterone produced by the adrenal glands.
TREATMENT PLAN/CARE
A.Wear your identification band stating that you have Addison’s disease and that lists treatment, as well as your healthcare provider’s name and phone number.
B.Increased medication dosage will be required during any significant illness, especially with vomiting and/or diarrhea, before dental extractions, and before major surgical procedures. These issues need to be discussed with your healthcare provider so you will know the correct dosage of medication to take.
C.Have injectable cortisol available for emergencies when you are unconscious or otherwise unable to take pills.
Activity: As tolerated; avoid overexertion.
Diet: Eat a high-sodium, low-potassium, high-protein diet.
Medications:
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If:
A.You have a reaction to your medications.
B.You cannot tolerate the prescribed medications.
C.You are having dental procedures or surgery, to discuss adjusting your medicines.
D.You are sick with nausea and vomiting, to discuss adjusting your medicines or coming into the office.
E.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCES
MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine): https://medlineplus.gov/addisondisease.html
National Adrenal Diseases Foundation: https://www.nadf.us/adrenal-diseases/addisons-disease
National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service: http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/addison/addison.aspx
You can build your own identification bracelets or neck chains from American Medical ID: https://www.americanmedical-id.com/customized-ids/customized-medical-id-jewelry.html.
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