Overview

The adrenal glands, sitting above each kidney, produce hormones including cortisol and aldosterone that help regulate metabolism, blood pressure, immune response and the body’s response to stress. Adrenal disorders occur when these glands produce too much or too little hormone — conditions include Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency), Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol), and adrenal tumours or nodules. These conditions are uncommon but important to identify, as symptoms are often non-specific and easily overlooked.

Common signs and symptoms

• Persistent fatigue, weakness or unexplained weight change
• Blood pressure that is unusually high or low
• Skin changes — darkening, thinning, or stretch marks
• Severe symptoms such as vomiting, dehydration or collapse need urgent medical attention

What to expect at A Bit of Life Clinic

We take a careful history and arrange hormone testing to identify whether the adrenal glands are producing too much or too little hormone, along with imaging where a tumour or nodule is suspected. Treatment is tailored to the specific diagnosis — this may include hormone replacement, medication to control excess hormone levels, or referral for specialist or surgical care — with a clear plan for monitoring over time.