Are You Suffering From Adrenal Fatigue?

Adrenal fatigue occurs when a patient’s adrenal glands do not function at the levels they need to. This medical condition has been associated with extended periods of stress and chronic respiratory infections. Fatigue is the main symptom with this illness; however, patients may experience a general feeling of malaise. Many patients use energy drinks, caffeinated drinks, and other stimulants to help them cope with the fatigue associated with this disorder.

Patient’s suffering from adrenal fatigue may have trouble getting out of bed due to the fatigue. Troubles may begin to arise in the cardiovascular system. The body may be unable to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins and this can create changes throughout the body.

Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue vary from patient to patient. Sometimes patients will develop a rash, at other times patients may exhibit overwhelming sleepiness throughout out the day. Fatigue, low blood pressure, and loss of body hair are also symptoms of adrenal fatigue. People suffering with adrenal fatigue may crave for sweet and salty foods.

Adrenal fatigue patients often have a hard time recuperating from common illnesses, such as the flu or the common cold. Extreme weight loss is another symptom of adrenal fatigue. Patients may also complain of body aches and pains when they are suffering with adrenal fatigue. They require high amounts of caffeine to keep them awake during the day.

Causes of Adrenal Fatigue

There are four main causes for adrenal fatigue - stress, illness, toxins and events that place strain on the body.

Adrenal fatigue occurs when the patient’s adrenal glands cannot produce efficient hormones during times of intense stress. Additionally, intense stress can cause patients to experience numerous physical discomforts, including pain, rapid heart rate and insomnia. Physician’s recommend patients to limit the amount of stress they are under. This can be done by limiting the number of obligations outside of work, spending time with family and enjoying a hobby.

Researchers have discovered that respiratory illnesses and infections may cause adrenal fatigue. Some people suffering from allergies also experience adrenal fatigue. This may be related to the immune system’s need to produce extra killer cells; thus, causing the adrenal glands to work harder.

Everyone knows how toxins, pollution and chemicals negatively affect the body. Common toxins found in non-organic foods, the air and the chemicals in cleaning supplies can all cause damage to the adrenal glands resulting in adrenal fatigue. The length of time patients are exposed to these toxins, the greater the chances of developing adrenal fatigue.

Adrenal Fatigue

Finally, there are many events that can contribute to adrenal fatigue. Anytime the body undergoes major changes, it can cause changes in the hormones. Examples of major events that can cause adrenal fatigue include malnutrition, drug addiction and major surgeries.

When patients’ adrenal glands do not function properly, a plethora of medical conditions can occur including sex dysfunction, body aches, cravings, extreme weight loss and fatigue. Patients exhibiting these symptoms should have their adrenal functions tested by a physician.