Testing for Addisons

[Sorana1122]

List of symptoms that I have that endocrinologist thinks is Addisons

Hyperpigmentation

Lethargy

Increased thirst

Muscle weakness

Low appetite

Frequent urination

Craving for salty foods

Fainting

Feeling sick

Diarrhoea

Vomiting

Muscle aches

Reduced libido

Low blood sugar

And hypothyroid symptoms as well for undertreated Hashimotos/hypothyroidism

DHEA 2.3 (2.7 - 7.5)

I have gotten in touch with my endocrinologist, I did have cortisol tested at about 11am one morning. My level was 331 and I did not fast for it. I think I should be pushing for investigations into my symptoms?

Thank you

[Hidden]

It does sound likely that you do have Addisons, you don't need to fast for a cortisol blood test but they are best done around 8-9am. Your level at 11am maybe sightly low but not too bad.

[andy97 in reply to Hidden]

What does low Cortisol indicate, anyway? Can it be cause for concern? I’m struggling with fatigue and weakness and my Cortisol is pretty low... could that be why?

[sue_b]

Hi Sorana1122

I am hypothyroid, post-menopause and have recently seen an endo privately with my privately bought saliva tests for cortisol, dhea, testosterone and estrogens ( not aldosterone) . He said that the blood cortisol is not always useful and he uses saliva testing, which I think is pretty wide spread amongst endos these days ( or should be). if you haven't already done them, the saliva tests are done 4 or 5 times, depending on the test , over the course of a day and give useful info about what your body is doing and also measure DHEA. The basic Cortisol saliva test is not hugely expensive.

I have excess cortisol so can't compare notes with you but I highly recommend a book which covers adrenal issues/low cortisol extensively. Its by James Wilson and its called Adrenal Fatigue. There is not so much in there about high cortisol. It will tell you everything you need to know and I would read it soon so you understand what you need to do.

Best of luck

Sueb