Adrenal hypofunction: what you can do yourself
If your disease is well controlled with medication, you can lead a completely normal life. You do not have to follow a special diet either. However, if you are very active in sports or otherwise exposed to high levels of physical stress, you should bear in mind that you will need more cortisol in this case. You should therefore always adjust the dose to the respective load in consultation with your doctor. You should also have your values checked regularly at the hospital.
Special training courses
Adrenal hypofunction is a rare condition. Specialists with extensive experience are available to you at the USZ. We also offer special training courses for affected patients and their relatives to help them learn how to deal with the disease independently in everyday life.
Treatment with hormones
If the autoimmune disease results in a hormone deficiency, we prescribe tablets to replace the missing hormones:
- Hydrocortisone: In the case of a deficiency of glucocorticoids, it is administered. They usually take it two to three times a day.
- Fludrocortisone: If there is an undersupply of mineral corticosteroids, the deficiency is covered by taking fludrocortisone daily.
Important to know: The destroyed tissue of the adrenal cortex cannot regenerate. Therefore, hormone replacement therapy must be given for life. For treatment, it is best to consult specialists in hormone disorders (endocrinology). You will regularly check whether your hormone levels are still in balance. If in doubt, the required dose of medication can be adjusted to your individual needs. It is therefore important to increase the dose of hydrocortisone accordingly in the event of particular stresses such as infections or operations. You should discuss this with your doctor in good time.