Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au
betterhealth.vic.gov.au
  • Addison's disease or ‘primary adrenal insufficiency’ is a condition where the adrenal glands are unable to produce enough hormones.
  • Causes can include infection, damage, and an autoimmune response that prompts the immune system to attack and destroy the adrenal glands.
  • Treatment includes steroid replacement therapy that must be managed for life.
  • A sudden, acute worsening of symptoms is known as an Addisonian crisis.
  • An Addisonian crisis can be fatal unless treated quickly and appropriately.

Give feedback about this page

More information

Content disclaimer

Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 14-06-2019