Adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped glands located superior to both kidneys. Adrenal glands produce hormones that help improve your immune system, blood pressure, response to stress, balance your metabolism and other essential functions. 

When the adrenal glands don’t produce an adequate amount of hormones it can cause adrenal deficiency otherwise known as Addison’s disease. The adrenal cortex is the outermost region and the biggest part of the adrenal gland. It is divided into three separate sections. Each zone is responsible for creating specific hormones. The adrenal medulla is located within the adrenal cortex and is found in the centermost part of the adrenal gland. It produces “stress hormones”. 

The adrenal glands also dispense sex hormones, androgen, and estrogen. In females, the excresion of sex hormones is responsible for body hair growth during adolescence. In males, the adrenal glands makes sure the sex organs form properly during the childhood development years. The main hormone called aldosterone, sustains salt and water within the bloodstream. This helps regulate the body’s blood pressure. Without the hormone aldosterone, kidneys lose too much sodium and water, which can cause a decrease in blood pressure or life-threatening dehydration. 

The failure to produce adequate amounts of adrenal hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone, can result in:

• Weight Loss
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Craving Salty Food
• Muscle Weakness
• Fatigue
• Mouth Sores
• Abdominal Pain
• Constipation
• Darkening of Skin
• Headaches

When treated by Dr. Tieche and his team, we will keep a close eye on your adrenal function and manage it properly to help you feel your best.