The story of Lesley
My body does not make Cortisol. I was very sick for a couple years, but regular medical tests unable to detect. Severe joint pain, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, skin tanning in winter, headaches, low blood pressure, extreme fatigue, depression, mood changes, no energy, nausea, darkening of skin in extremities (hands, feet, elbows, gums), low libido.
Finally referred to an endocrinologist and was diagnosed with Primary Adrenal Insufficiency or Addison’s disease in 2000. I take steroids orally to replace what my body does not produce. In 2014, I had my first adrenal crisis – sudden onset of vomiting which did not stop. Ambulance called to my home and taken to hospital and stayed 3 days. Subsequently diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
In 2017, I had my second adrenal crisis; ambulance called to home (uncontrollable vomiting) and taken to hospital for treatment.
I wear a Medic Alert bracelet, carry an emergency injection kit, increase dosage for stressful situations, both emotional and physical, and increase salt intake as needed to keep electrolytes balanced.