Adrenal Gland Disorders
The adrenal glands, located above each kidney, produce vital hormones including cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. Disorders of the adrenal glands can lead to overproduction or underproduction of these hormones, causing a wide range of symptoms that affect metabolism, blood pressure, and the body's response to stress.
Common Adrenal Gland Disorders
- Cushing's Syndrome – Excess cortisol causing weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stretch marks
- Addison's Disease (Primary Adrenal Insufficiency) – Insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production
- Conn's Syndrome (Primary Hyperaldosteronism) – Excess aldosterone causing high blood pressure and low potassium
- Phaeochromocytoma – Tumour producing excess adrenaline, causing episodic hypertension and sweating
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) – Genetic disorder affecting cortisol production
- Adrenal Incidentaloma – Adrenal mass found incidentally on imaging; requires hormonal evaluation
Symptoms
Symptoms vary by condition but may include:
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Extreme fatigue
- High or low blood pressure
- Muscle weakness
- Skin changes (stretch marks, darkening)
- Episodes of palpitations and excessive sweating
- Mood changes
- Salt craving
Diagnosis
- Blood and urine cortisol tests (including 24-hour urinary free cortisol)
- Dexamethasone suppression test
- ACTH stimulation test
- Aldosterone and renin levels
- Plasma or urine metanephrines (for phaeochromocytoma)
- CT scan or MRI of the adrenal glands
Treatment
Medications
Hormone replacement for Addison's disease; medications to block excess hormone production in Cushing's syndrome or phaeochromocytoma.
Surgery
Adrenalectomy (surgical removal of the adrenal gland) for phaeochromocytoma, certain adenomas, and other adrenal tumours.
Long-term Monitoring
Regular follow-up to manage hormone levels and blood pressure, and to screen for complications.
Why Choose Dr. Harsh Parekh?
Dr. Harsh Parekh provides expert evaluation and management of complex adrenal disorders. His systematic approach to investigation and personalised treatment planning ensures accurate diagnosis and the best possible outcomes for patients with adrenal conditions.