A condition characterized by the chronic destruction of the adrenal cortex, which leads to an increased loss of sodium and water in the urine, muscle weakness and low blood pressure. The bronze color of the skin is due to the increased production of the skin pigment, melanin.

	Addison's Disease The Condition "Addison's disease is a severe or total deficiency of the hormones made in the adrenal cortex, caused by a destruction of the adrenal cortex..." Hyponatremia (Low Blood Sodium Level) The Condition "...Addison's disease causes hyponatremia as a result of low levels of aldosterone due to damage to the adrenal gland..." Low Adrenal Function / Adrenal Insufficiency The Condition "...reduce your quality of life, yet this condition is not recognized by most doctors, who only think of the adrenal gland's condition as being at either extreme - normal or in overt failure (Addison's disease)..." Vitiligo The Condition "...Even though most people with vitiligo are in good general health, they are at greater risk of ... Addison's disease (decreased adrenal gland function)..."

Last updated: Feb 28, 2008