Addison’s Disease | Symptoms

What are the symptoms of Addison’s disease?

The symptoms of Addison’s disease usually develop over a period of several months and may include:

• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Darkening of the skin (called hyperpigmentation)
• Low blood pressure that can sometimes causes fainting
• Cravings for salty foods
• Low blood sugar (called hypoglycemia)
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Irritability
• Sensitivity to cold
• Depression

Sometimes, the symptoms of Addison’s disease appear suddenly. This is called acute adrenal failure or an Addisonian crisis. It can be fatal if it isn't treated. The symptoms may include:

• Pain in the abdomen, lower back or legs
• Severe vomiting and diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure
• Loss of consciousness