Adrenal fatigue - Rejuvenate HRT Clinic

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What is adrenal fatigue?

Adrenal fatigue refers to a collection of signs and symptoms that result when the adrenal glands cannot adequately meet the demands of stress. As the name suggests, adrenal fatigue affects the adrenal glands, which are small glands located above each kidney.

The adrenal glands produce important hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol, often called the "stress hormone," helps regulate blood pressure and cardiovascular function. Adrenaline increases blood flow to muscles, increases heart rate and blood pressure, and prepares the body to react to stress.

When a person encounters repeated or chronic stress, their adrenal glands have to continually produce cortisol and other hormones to cope with the demand. Over time, this can "fatigue" or exhaust the adrenal glands, compromising their ability to function normally.

What are the symptoms of adrenal fatigue?

Common adrenal fatigue symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Difficulty waking up in the morning
• Salt/sugar cravings
• Irritability or depression
• Brain fog

The symptoms tend to be relatively mild initially but can worsen over time if ignored. Other health conditions like thyroid disorders or vitamin deficiencies can also cause similar symptoms, so it's important to get an accurate diagnosis from a healthcare provider.

What causes adrenal fatigue?

Frequent or prolonged stress is the primary cause of adrenal fatigue. Sources of stress that can fatigue the adrenals include:

• Emotional stress from major life events or trauma
• Physical stress from injury, surgery, or illness
• Repeated infections
• Poor diet, sleep deprivation, etc.

How is adrenal fatigue treated?

Treatment focuses on reducing stress levels and supporting adrenal function. Key treatments may include:

• Stress management techniques like meditation, counseling, massage, etc.
• A nutritious diet high in minerals like magnesium and B vitamins
• High-quality sleep
• Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha to support cortisol balance
• Hydrocortisone or other cortisol medications (in severe cases)

With proper rest and stress reduction, mild-moderate adrenal fatigue can often resolve within several months. More severe fatigue may require 1 years of focused treatment and lifestyle adjustment for full recovery.

For more information, please consult with the professionals at Rejuvenate HRT Clinic.