Most often, this takes the form of a long-term (chronic) disease - Addison’s disease - that occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys adrenal gland tissues. Primary adrenal insufficiency occurs when adrenal glands are diseased or damaged. There are two main categories of adrenal insufficiency: primary adrenal insufficiency and secondary adrenal insufficiency. Aldosterone helps maintain proper blood pressure through the balance of sodium, potassium and water in the body. It also helps glucose metabolism and helps with proper cardiovascular function. Cortisol helps your body respond to stress, such as from an injury or infection. Hormones secreted by the adrenal glands include cortisol and aldosterone. Your adrenal glands are located on the top of each kidney. Primary adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison’s disease, is one form. DEAR MAYO CLINIC: What is adrenal insufficiency? Is it the same as Addison’s disease?ĪNSWER: There are a few forms of adrenal insufficiency, which is an uncommon disorder caused by the adrenal glands not making enough of certain hormones.
