Symptoms of adrenal gland disorders vary depending on the hormones involved. If your condition is caused by an autoimmune problem, you may be able to cure your illness by treating the cause. You might also need to take medication to manage your symptoms. In some cases, you might need to have an adrenalectomy. These surgeries can help treat your condition and improve your quality of life. You should seek medical care immediately if you think you have one of these conditions.
Cushing’s syndrome is a disorder that causes the adrenal gland to produce too much cortisol. It can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and weak bones. In addition, it can cause acne and a round red face. Other signs of this disease are low potassium, and high white blood cell counts.
Adrenal tumors can also trigger excessive cortisol production. These tumors are not cancerous, but can be a risk factor for heart attack and stroke. Symptoms of an adrenal tumor can range from high blood pressure to headaches and fainting spells. The best way to determine whether you have a tumor is to undergo an imaging scan. The procedure may involve a CT scan or an MRI. The results of these scans will tell your doctor whether your tumor is benign or cancerous. In some cases, you might need to undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This will destroy the cancer cells.
The most common type of tumor is an adrenal adenoma. These tumors are typically noncancerous, but can cause Cushing’s syndrome and primary aldosteronism. Many people do not realize they have an adrenal adenoma until they undergo an imaging test. The tests are designed to determine whether the tumor is producing too much cortisol. If your doctor finds that your tumor is overproducing cortisol, you may need to take medication to reduce its production. If you are diagnosed with a benign tumor, you may be able to have the tumor removed through a laparoscopy. This surgery involves tiny incisions in your abdomen.
Other symptoms of an adrenal adenoma include increased body hair, irregular periods, and a deeper voice. These symptoms can appear in both men and women. In addition, these symptoms can cause fatigue, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness. You might notice a reduction in your sex drive as well. If you suspect that you have an adrenal adenoma, you should visit an endocrinologist.
Some people are at higher risk for an adrenal adenoma because they are overweight, smoke cigarettes, or drink alcohol. The condition is also inherited. If you are at risk for an adrenal adenoma, you might want to consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace. The more alert you are to your health, the better your chances of getting medical attention for a tumor. You might be able to prevent the development of an adrenal adenoma by maintaining a healthy weight.
In some cases, the symptoms of an adrenal adenoma can be mild, and a simple medication can be all that is needed. In others, you might need to have surgery to remove the tumor. This surgery can be a life-saving measure if you have high blood pressure. It can also help to reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
