Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a collection of non-specific symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances and digestive issues. It is thought to occur when the adrenal glands become overtaxed and unable to produce adequate levels of hormones like cortisol to maintain normal physiological function.
The adrenal glands produce over 50 different hormones that regulate various processes in the body. The main hormones produced by the adrenals include:
Some potential causes of adrenal fatigue include:
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue can be vague but may include:
Diagnosing adrenal fatigue can be tricky. There are no standard lab tests that can conclusively determine if someone has clinically low adrenal function. However, your doctor may order tests like the Adrenal Stress Index saliva test or 24-hour urine cortisol test to check for patterns consistent with adrenal fatigue.
Treatment involves removing stressors, getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, correcting nutritional deficiencies, and supporting weakened adrenals with adaptogenic herbs or hydrocortisone. Lifestyle factors like daily movement, stress management and limiting stimulants are also important.
If you suspect your fatigue, mood issues or trouble recovering from stress could be related to weakened adrenals, I recommend visiting the adrenal fatigue specialists at Hormone Health Clinic clinic. Their cutting-edge diagnostic testing can accurately assess adrenal function. And their individualized treatment plans consisting of stress-adaptogenic formulas, targeted diet and lifestyle changes can help restore optimal adrenal health.
In summary: