Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare but serious condition where the adrenal glands fail to produce enough of certain essential hormones — mainly cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone.
Your adrenal glands sit just above your kidneys and play a key role in your body’s stress response, blood pressure regulation, and metabolism. When they don’t work properly, the effects can impact nearly every system in the body.
What Exactly Is Happening?
In Addison’s disease, the adrenal glands are damaged, most often due to the immune system mistakenly attacking them — a condition called autoimmune adrenalitis. This damage reduces hormone production, leading to a gradual buildup of symptoms that can be life-threatening if untreated.
It’s different from secondary adrenal insufficiency, which happens when the pituitary gland (which sends signals to the adrenal glands) isn’t producing enough ACTH — the hormone that tells the adrenal glands what to do. Addison’s refers specifically to issues within the adrenal glands themselves.
Who Gets Addison’s Disease?
Addison’s disease is rare, affecting around 100 to 140 people per million in developed countries, according to global estimates. It can develop at any age and in both men and women. Most diagnoses occur between the ages of 30 and 50.
How It Can Affect Your Health
While Addison’s disease is rare, it can be dangerous if left untreated — especially because symptoms tend to develop slowly and may be overlooked. However, with proper diagnosis and daily hormone replacement therapy, people with Addison’s disease can live healthy, active lives.
👉 Next: The Symptoms of Addison’s Disease
Reviewed April 2025. Always consult a professional for individual guidance.
Addison’s Disease Frequently Asked Questions
