Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 1, 2021

22 Q What is adrenal fatigue? Patients who are experiencing symptoms such as body aches, tiredness, insomnia, trouble waking up in the morning and needing stimulants (like caffeine) to get through the day may be diagnosed with adrenal fatigue . This term is sometimes used by practitioners of alternative medicine to explain these symptoms that commonly occur in people who have experienced prolonged stress. In the medical profession, there is currently no scientific evidence to support adrenal fatigue as a true medical condition. Therefore, this diagnosis is not accepted by most doctors. Further, the tests used in the diagnosis have not been validated, and interpretation can be misleading. While many health blogs use this term to imply that the adrenal glands are overworked, these symptoms could be clues to other underlying issues or could just be part of living a busy life. Proponents of adrenal fatigue imply that when a patient is in a state of prolonged or constant stress, their adrenals cannot keep up. As doctors, our priority is to diagnose the cause of your symptoms and ensure you receive proper treatment if needed. Howdo theadrenal glandswork? The adrenals make several hormones, one of which is cortisol. Cortisol is commonly referred to as the stress hormone . Under normal conditions, the adrenals are constantly working, and they would normally produce a higher level of cortisol in response to illness or stress. Recommended treatment When patients experience these Ask the Expert Maria Rodebaugh, M.D. Endocrinologist symptoms, they may self-diagnose or be told they have adrenal fatigue. Practitioners who treat adrenal fatigue may advise patients to quit tobacco, alcohol and recreational drugs; maintain a healthy diet, start an exercise program; and follow a regular sleep routine. These lifestyle changes are healthy practices and can improve just about anyone’s sense of well-being. Patients may also be advised to take a regimen of vitamins and supplements that claim to be made especially for adrenal health. While regular vitamins and minerals may be good for your health, some supplements can be potentially harmful. Keep in mind that supplements are produced with no oversight or regulations. They are not tested for safety, purity or accuracy of contents. Adrenal insufficiency Adrenal insufficiency, on the other hand, is a real medical condition. This occurs when the adrenal glands cannot produce enough hormones or when there is a problem with the pituitary gland—the master gland in the brain that controls several glands, including the adrenals. Adrenal insufficiency can manifest with symptoms including weight loss, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, lowblood pressure and dehydration. Adrenal insufficiency is diagnosed through blood tests and can be treated with medications that replace the hormones the adrenals would normally make. It is frustrating to have persistent, unexplainable symptoms even after extensive testing. I advise patients to work closely with their physician. If you are experiencing these symptoms, getting the proper diagnosis is important so you can receive appropriate, effective and safe treatment. Maria Rodebaugh, M.D., is a board- certified endocrinologist and the medical director of the Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic at Kootenai Health. You can learn more about diabetes and endocrinology services at KH.org/diabetes -endocrinology or by calling (208) 625-5500 .