Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a collection of nonspecific symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues. It is thought to occur when the adrenal glands become overtaxed and unable to produce adequate levels of hormones like cortisol to meet the body's needs.
Some key points about adrenal fatigue:
- The adrenal glands produce important hormones like cortisol that help regulate metabolism, immune function, blood pressure, and the body's response to stress.
- Symptoms of adrenal fatigue can be vague and may include fatigue, trouble getting up in the morning, salt and sugar cravings, irritability, anxiety, brain fog, and disrupted sleep.
- While controversial, some healthcare providers believe that factors like chronic stress, poor diet, infections, and hormonal imbalances can overwork the adrenals over time and cause insufficiency.
What causes adrenal fatigue?
Proponents argue that various pressures like work and emotional stress, blood sugar swings, poor nutrition, hormonal changes, and sleep deprivation tax the adrenals over time. Eventually, the adrenals lose their resiliency and have trouble adequately responding to daily demands.
How is adrenal fatigue diagnosed?
There are no standard medical tests to definitively diagnose adrenal fatigue. Some providers may check cortisol levels with saliva or blood tests to look for patterns that could indicate overtaxed adrenals. They may also assess signs and symptoms and take a detailed history to identify risk factors like chronic stress, diet, and lifestyle habits.
How is adrenal fatigue treated?
Conventional doctors may not recognize adrenal fatigue as a real medical condition. But some alternative and functional medicine practitioners suggest lifestyle changes to support optimal adrenal function:
- Stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, massage
- Improved diet with whole, energizing foods
- Targeted supplements like B vitamins, vitamin C, adaptogens
- More restorative sleep
Should you see a doctor?
If you are experiencing unexplained fatigue, body aches, nervousness, or other vague symptoms, it's a good idea to see your healthcare provider to identify or rule out any underlying medical issues. While not universally accepted, some holistic-minded physicians at clinics like Renew Health Clinic may also evaluate you for adrenal dysfunction if lab tests and symptoms fit the pattern.
Adrenal fatigue is a complex issue that remains controversial. More research is still needed to understand the mechanisms behind this proposed diagnosis. But paying close attention to diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and the underlying drivers of your symptoms can help you take steps toward feeling better.