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Adrenal Disorders

Valdosta Specialty Clinic

Rheumatology & Endocrinology located in Valdosta, GA

Adrenal disorders include any condition that affects the production of the adrenal hormones, including cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. Wayne Furr, MD, and the endocrinology experts at Valdosta Specialty Clinic in Valdosta, Georgia, specialize in diagnosing and treating adrenal disorders. They conduct thorough evaluations and provide personalized care, partnering with you to manage your adrenal disorder. Call the office today to schedule your adrenal disorder consultation, or click on the online contact page to send a message.

Adrenal Disorders Q & A

What are adrenal disorders?

Adrenal disorders include various conditions that affect the function of your adrenal glands. Your adrenal glands are tiny glands found above your kidneys that produce hormones — cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone — that regulate your metabolism, immune system, and stress response. 

Adrenal disorders occur when your adrenal glands produce too much or not enough of these hormones. 

What are some common types of adrenal disorders?

The endocrinologists at Valdosta Specialty Clinic classify adrenal disorders into types based on the hormones affected and whether levels are too low or too high. 

Common types include:

Addison’s disease

Addison’s disease, also called primary adrenal insufficiency, occurs when your adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol or aldosterone. It can cause symptoms, such as weight loss, weakness, and salt cravings.

Cushing’s syndrome

Cushing’s syndrome occurs when your cortisol levels are too high. With this adrenal disorder, you may gain weight in the face and abdomen and lose fat in the arms and legs.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)

CAH is a rare genetic condition that affects the production of cortisol and aldosterone. People with CAH don’t have the enzyme necessary to make these hormones.

Hyperaldosteronism

Hyperaldosteronism means your adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, causing high blood pressure.

Various growths may also cause adrenal disorders such as an adrenal gland tumor (noncancerous growth that affects hormone production), adrenocortical carcinoma (a rare type of cancer), and pituitary tumors (affecting the production of pituitary hormones that influence adrenal gland function).

What happens during evaluations for adrenal disorders?

The experts at Valdosta Specialty Clinic take a comprehensive approach to care. They conduct thorough evaluations when you have concerns about a hormonal disorder to find the cause and create the most effective plan.

Your provider reviews your symptoms, medical and family history, and performs a physical exam. Then, they run lab work to check your hormone levels. They may also do imaging scans if they suspect your hormonal changes are due to a tumor.

What are the treatments for adrenal disorders?

Your provider at Valdosta Specialty Clinic customizes your adrenal disorder treatment plan based on type. Treatment may include medication to control hormone production, hormone replacement, or surgery.

The goal of your adrenal disorder treatment plan is to restore hormone balance, reduce symptoms, and improve overall health.

For expert care for adrenal disorders from a highly skilled team of experts, call Valdosta Specialty Clinic today or reach out online.