Question 1

What is Adrenocortical Insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

Adrenocortical insufficiency is a condition where the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient amounts of essential hormones. It is caused by damage to the adrenal cortex, resulting in deficient production of cortisol and aldosterone hormones. The Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio test is the most important test for diagnosing this condition.

Question 2

What causes adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal insufficiency is caused by damage to the adrenal cortex, which prevents these small glands from producing adequate amounts of cortisol and aldosterone. The primary form, known as Addison's disease, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the adrenal tissue. Secondary adrenal insufficiency happens when the pituitary gland fails to produce enough ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), which normally signals the adrenals to make cortisol. Less common causes include tuberculosis, fungal infections, cancer spread to the adrenals, or abrupt withdrawal from long-term steroid medications.

Question 3

What is the best test for adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

The Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio test is the most important test for adrenal insufficiency because it measures both aldosterone hormone levels and plasma renin activity simultaneously. In people with adrenal insufficiency, aldosterone levels are typically low while renin activity becomes elevated, creating an abnormal ratio that confirms the adrenal glands are not producing enough hormones. This LC/MS/MS technology provides highly accurate measurements that help distinguish primary adrenal insufficiency (where the adrenals themselves are damaged) from secondary forms. Additional tests like morning cortisol levels and ACTH stimulation tests may be ordered to complete the diagnosis and determine the specific type of adrenal insufficiency.

Question 4

When should I get tested for adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest, unexplained weight loss, low blood pressure that causes dizziness when standing, or darkening of your skin in unusual areas. Testing becomes urgent if you have been taking steroid medications for a long time and are planning to stop, or if you have symptoms that worsen during times of stress or illness. People with autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease should also consider testing, as they have higher risk for developing adrenal insufficiency.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms include extreme and persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, and unintentional weight loss. You might notice low blood pressure that makes you feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up, along with salt cravings. Many people develop hyperpigmentation, which appears as darkening of the skin, particularly in areas exposed to friction like elbows and knees. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, depression, irritability, and low blood sugar episodes. Women may experience loss of menstrual periods or decreased body hair.

Question 6

Who is at risk for adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

People with autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease, or vitiligo have increased risk because their immune system may also attack the adrenal glands. Those who take steroid medications like prednisone for conditions such as asthma or rheumatoid arthritis are at risk, especially if they stop the medication suddenly. Individuals with a history of tuberculosis, fungal infections, or cancer that has spread to the adrenal glands face higher risk. Family history of Addison's disease or other autoimmune conditions also increases susceptibility, as does having had surgery or radiation treatment involving the pituitary gland.

Question 7

What happens if adrenal insufficiency is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated adrenal insufficiency can lead to an adrenal crisis, which is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention. During an adrenal crisis, blood pressure drops dangerously low, causing severe weakness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. You may experience severe vomiting and diarrhea leading to dehydration, along with severe abdominal or lower back pain. Low blood sugar and high potassium levels can cause irregular heart rhythms that are potentially fatal. Even without a crisis, chronic untreated adrenal insufficiency causes progressive weakness, weight loss, and significantly impacts your ability to function in daily life.

Question 8

Can adrenal insufficiency be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are essential for diagnosing adrenal insufficiency and cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone. The Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio blood test measures hormone levels that become abnormal when your adrenal glands are not working properly. Blood tests also check morning cortisol levels, which are typically low in people with this condition. An ACTH stimulation test, where blood is drawn before and after receiving synthetic ACTH hormone, helps confirm the diagnosis and determine whether the problem originates in the adrenal glands themselves or the pituitary gland. Additional blood work checks for electrolyte imbalances like low sodium and high potassium that commonly occur with adrenal insufficiency.

Question 9

How is adrenal insufficiency treated?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal insufficiency is treated with lifelong hormone replacement therapy that replaces the hormones your adrenal glands can no longer produce. Hydrocortisone or prednisone tablets replace cortisol and are typically taken two to three times daily to mimic the body's natural hormone patterns. If aldosterone is also deficient, fludrocortisone medication helps maintain proper salt and fluid balance. During times of illness, injury, or surgery, you will need to increase your medication doses to prevent an adrenal crisis. It is crucial to wear medical alert identification and carry an emergency injection kit of hydrocortisone in case you become unable to take oral medications during a crisis.

Question 10

How can I prevent adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

Primary adrenal insufficiency caused by autoimmune destruction cannot be prevented, but early detection through blood testing allows for prompt treatment. If you take steroid medications, never stop them abruptly, as this can cause secondary adrenal insufficiency; always taper off slowly under medical supervision. People with autoimmune conditions should monitor for symptoms and get tested if they develop signs of adrenal problems. Preventing adrenal crisis in those already diagnosed involves taking medications consistently, increasing doses during illness or stress, and seeking immediate medical care if you cannot keep medications down due to vomiting.

Question 11

What can I do at home for adrenal insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

While hormone replacement medication is essential and cannot be replaced by home remedies, you can support your health by increasing salt intake, especially during hot weather or exercise when you lose more sodium through sweat. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Keep a consistent medication schedule and never skip doses of your prescribed hormone replacement. Manage stress through adequate sleep, gentle exercise as tolerated, and relaxation techniques. Always carry your emergency hydrocortisone injection kit and medical alert identification. Inform all healthcare providers, including dentists, about your condition before any procedures.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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Adrenal Insufficiency Blood Test

What is Adrenocortical Insufficiency?

What causes adrenal insufficiency?

What is the best test for adrenal insufficiency?

When should I get tested for adrenal insufficiency?

References

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