Quick read
Key points
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Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough of certain hormones, particularly cortisol, which the body needs to manage stress, blood pressure, and energy levels. Symptoms often develop gradually and can include persistent fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin.
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Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
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You have symptoms suggestive of Addison's disease, such as persistent fatigue, weight loss, or skin darkening
01 · Know
What is Addison's Disease?
Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough of certain hormones, particularly cortisol, which the body needs to manage stress, blood pressure, and energy levels. Symptoms often develop gradually and can include persistent fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin.
It's a lifelong condition managed with daily hormone replacement medication. With consistent treatment, most people with Addison's disease live full, active lives, though it's important to know how to adjust medication during illness or stress to avoid a serious complication called an Addisonian crisis.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
Sick day rules are essential for people with Addison's disease
During illness, injury, or significant stress, the body needs more cortisol than usual — people with Addison's disease are given specific "sick day rules" for adjusting their medication to prevent a dangerous crisis.
03 · Act
When to Seek Help
- 1You have symptoms suggestive of Addison's disease, such as persistent fatigue, weight loss, or skin darkening
- 2You've been diagnosed and have questions about your medication or sick day rules
- 3You're unwell and unsure how to adjust your medication
- 4You experience any signs of an Addisonian crisis — seek emergency care immediately
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Never Stop Steroid Medication Suddenly
Stopping hormone replacement medication abruptly can trigger a life-threatening Addisonian crisis — always follow your care team's guidance on adjusting or continuing medication, especially during illness.
- 1Take medication consistently, exactly as prescribed.This is essential for managing symptoms and preventing crisis.
- 2Learn and follow your sick day rules.Your endocrine team will teach you how to adjust your dose during illness, injury, or significant stress.
- 3Carry a steroid emergency card and medical ID.This alerts emergency responders to your condition and treatment needs if you're unable to communicate.
- 4Carry emergency injection medication if prescribed.Some people carry an emergency hydrocortisone injection for crisis situations — make sure those close to you know how to use it if needed.
- 5Attend regular follow-up appointments.These ensure your treatment remains well balanced over time.
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Addison's disease is a manageable, lifelong condition, and with consistent medication and sick day planning, most people live full and active lives.
Know your sick day rules and carry a steroid emergency card — these are essential for preventing an Addisonian crisis.