Addison's Disease Support Group
Addison's disease (also known as chronic adrenal insufficiency, or hypocortisolism) is a rare endocrine disorder. It is estimated that it affects about 1 to 2 in 100,000 people. It occurs when the adrenal glands, seated above the kidneys, fail to produce enough of the hormone cortisol and, sometimes, the hormone aldosterone
My Endo wants me to take the cortysyn stimulation test, b/c my cortisol was a bit low. I was told that in Broward county (very large population -Ft. Lauderdale)...he's the only Dr. who prescribes that test. There are lots of Endocrinologists here, who don't order it at all, and I just find it a bit odd that he is the ONLY one who ever orders it. I wonder why that could be? Also, does anyone know if there are any risks involved in taking it? I have until 1/16 to have it done as per my ins, so I'm going to get it I guess...I just thought if anyone could tell me if they've had it done, and how it was for you? I've been advised not to take it, b/c it's not a very commonly requesed test, and not to be a guinea pig. (?!) I've already been diagnosed with Primary Sjogren's Syndrome, (an AI disorder), Chronic pancreatitis, Avascular Necrosis of the femoral heads, (need hip replacements real bad-since '83), and a back disorder that has left me with Sciatica. I also have possible Distal RTA, but won't know for sure til next week, when I see the Nephrologist. I've been seeing a Urologist, due to some serious malfunctions with the urinary tract, and asthma/COPD from the Sjogren's. I was very healthy just 4 years ago, before my husband passed, (he was an Internist) except for the bad hips...and I'm beginning to wonder if his loss could have triggered these types of disorders. I guess it's hard to say, no one really knows what causes them. Living alone and being ill is very difficult. I'm very happy to have joined this group, and wish each of you the very best. Any replies or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. :)
Blessings to you all!
Blessings to you all!
Try reding about Emotional Freedom Technique. It may help. At worse, it cannot harm.
I do not know about the tests you have mentioned but whenever i have to tke a new med or test, I pray about it for wisdom and guidance.Good Luck. I will be prying for your healing.
THe cosyntropin stim test that your doctor wants to do is the standard diagnostic test for adrenal insufficiency. I don't know where you are getting the other information about other doctors not ordering it, or it being experimental, or you being a guinea pig. That is nonsense. Its a simple test in which they take a blood sample to check your cortisol level, then they give you cosyntropin, which is an injectable ACTH and check you blood again after an hour to see if your adrenal glands responded and pumped out cortisol. Sometimes they do two more blood checks over time. Its a simple, standard, very helpful test in diagnosing adrenal problems.
I'm sorry to hear about your husband's death, and your illness. It sounds like your immune system just up and turned on you in a big way. Do they have any idea of what the primary problem is? I'm sure the stress of your husband's loss played a role in triggering your illness. It may have been enough to tip the scales on you and make it all flare up. Hard to know. I hope they can get a handle on what's going on for you and get some control.
Vanyel
Thanks Vaynel, that was a very good explantion of the test...I'll go ahead with it. I was just a bit 'over worried', due to having so many other things go wrong with my health. Too much to take in... I guess adding another disease to the list wasn't something I was ready for. But I will know after the test, for sure I hope.
It's amazing what stress can do to our bodies, and the immune system. Thanks again for the replies. Wishing you all the best.
Take care,
Barbie