What is adrenal gland?

The adrenal glands sit at the top of the kidneys, one on each side of the body, and have an inner core (known as the medulla) surrounded by an outer shell (known as the cortex). The inner medulla produces adrenaline, the “fight or flight” stress hormone. While the absence of the adrenal medulla does not cause disease, the cortex is more critical. It produces the steroid hormones that are essential for life: cortisol and aldosterone.

Cortisol mobilises nutrients, enables the body to fight inflammation, stimulates the liver to produce blood sugar and also helps control the amount of water in the body. Aldosterone regulates salt and water levels which affect blood volume and blood pressure. The adrenal cortex also produces sex hormones known as adrenal androgens; the most important of these is a hormone called DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone).

What is Adrenal insufficiency or Crisis?

Adrenal insufficiency or crisis is a life-threatening condition that happens when your adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol and aldosterone hormones. These hormones help your body respond to stress, regulate blood pressure, and maintain energy levels.