10 Symptoms of Addison's Disease
Symptom #8: Depression
While different conditions can lead to depression, it may also signify the presence of Addison’s disease. Still, on its own, depression cannot be relied on as an Addison’s disease symptom. However, when it occurs together with other symptoms like hyperpigmentation, it would be necessary to have tests conducted to determine the levels of adrenal hormones as well as sodium and potassium.
It is not clear how adrenal insufficiency causes depression. However, it is theorized that electrolytic and metabolic problems that arise as a result of low adrenal hormone production may cause some brain dysfunctions. These dysfunctions include over-excitability of neurons and heightened response to sensory input, which may lead to depression.
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