The symptoms of Addison’s disease usually develop over a period of several months. Many of the symptoms of Addison’s disease are nonspecific. This means that at first, it may be hard for you or your doctor to figure out exactly what is wrong. Common symptoms of Addison’s disease may include:
Changes in mood or personality, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression
-- Lightheadedness or fainting upon standing, most often caused by low blood pressure
-- Darkening of the skin (called hyperpigmentation)
-- Fatigue
-- Muscle weakness
-- Joint or muscle pain
-- Fever
-- Weight loss
-- Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
-- Headache
-- Sweating
-- Cravings for salty foods
-- Loss of appetite
Sometimes, the symptoms of Addison’s disease appear suddenly, or quickly get worse. This is called acute adrenal failure or an Addisonian crisis. It can cause death if it isn't treated. If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or go to an emergency room right away:
-- Sudden, severe pain in the abdomen, lower back, or legs
-- Confusion or slurred speech
-- Sluggish movements, or serious muscle weakness
-- Severe vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration
-- Seizures
-- High fever
-- Fainting (loss of consciousness)
-- Low blood pressure