A Reflection of Two Chronic Diseases

A Reflection of Two Chronic Diseases

By: K W

“Variability is the law of life, and as no two faces are the same, so no two bodies are alike and no two individuals react alike and behave alike under the abnormal conditions which we know as disease” (Osle 2008). The same can be said for two diseases by the names of Addison's Disease and Cushing's Symptom. Although many people assume that Addison's disease and Cusings' syndrome are one in the same and while it is true they might some similarities, it is actually their differences that speak out stronger and louder. However the effect and damage the body is far different ways. Their definitions are actually just one example of the stark difference between the two. How cortisol is affected is different in Addison's and Cushing's syndrome as well. Finally, treatments and the long term effects from both diseases are different as well.

So it bares the question; just what is Addison's disease? It was first discovered by Dr. Thomas Addison back in the mid 1800s. It is also considered a rare disease due to the fact that only 1 in 100,000 has the condition. In Addison's disease, the adrenal glands don't make enough cortisol and in some cases a related hormone called aldosterone. In Addison's disease the adrenal glands cannot make enough cortisol, when this is the cause it is considered primary adrenal insufficiency. Between 70 to 90% is due to some autoimmune system disease, which in turn makes the body confused and it attacks and damages the adrenal glands. If the adrenal glands are effected by a problem starting somewhere else, such as the pituitary glands, then doctors will call the Addison's secondary adrenal insufficiency. Either way the human body is set up for disaster. 75 to 90 percent of patients, Salt, sugar and liquorice cravings are part of Addison's disease and should be monitored if the cravings become more intense. Addison's tends to be a very slow and gradual developing disease.” (Rakel,Brender, PubMed...