Adrenal Stress: Part Two
Filed Under Dr. Zoltan Rona (MD) |
Signs and Symptoms of Weak Adrenal Function
The many signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency are often brushed off by conventional doctors as “nerves” requiring a prescription for anti-depressants, tranquilizers, or estrogen. However, many of these signs and symptoms should alert both doctor and patient to look deeper into organic sources with the use of special tests (e.g., glucose tolerance test, cortisol, DHEA, hormone challenge tests, etc.). The results of these tests could provide a more definitive diagnosis.
An inability to concentrate, excessive fatigue, nervousness, irritability, depression, and anxiety are the most common symptoms associated with poor blood sugar control (hypoglycemia or diabetes) and ultimately to adrenal glandular weakness. Lightheadedness or dizziness, faintness or fainting as well as insomnia are also common problematic blood sugar control symptoms. So are cold, clammy palms, and red palms or fingertips.
Progesterone is one of the most important hormones secreted by the adrenal gland. Progesterone has a major role to play in healthy menstruation, bone building, and fertility. Many women who suffer from hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and premenstrual syndrome symptoms (fluid retention, depression, food cravings, breast pain and tenderness) are often suffering from relatively low progesterone levels, which can often be corrected by normalizing adrenal function.
The adrenal glands are responsible for blood pressure control. If you have access to a blood pressure measuring device there is a simple self-test you can use if you suspect low adrenal function. Take or have someone take your blood pressure several times both reclining and standing. If your blood pressure is usually somewhat on the low side (postural hypotension) on standing (105/60) but elevated to (120 or 130/70 or 80) on reclining, chances are high that your adrenals are malfunctioning. There should be very little difference between standing and reclining blood pressures if adrenal function is optimal.
Lesser known signs of adrenal weakness or insufficiency are:
• Skin thin, dry or scaly
• Skin pigmentation of temples
• Exaggerated reflexes
• Angular appearance with long arms and legs (span is greater than the height)
• Inflammation of lymph glands of the neck (swelling, pain, or tenderness)
• Thin-muscle type (asthenic habitus)
• Sparse hair on body, but usually a full head of fine and abundant hair.
• Typically blond and blue-eyed, or red-headed with skin allergies
• Crowded lower teeth with a high palatal arch (roof of mouth)
• Pain and tenderness over adrenal area when pressure is applied (positive Rogoff’s sign)
• Scanty perspiration (except under arms or hands and feet)
Dr. Zoltan Rona
