Adrenal fatigue is an undiagnosed epidemic. The adrenal glands are pyramidal shaped organs sitting on top of the kidneys. They are responsible for secreting steroid hormones, such as cortisol, DHEA, aldosterone and adrenaline.
Adrenal fatigue is characterised by fatigue commonly in the afternoons and evenings followed by an increase in energy in the late evening, dizziness, weakness, and a decreased ability to handle stress. It is caused by weak adrenal gland function, which can lead to conditions such as chronic fatigue and under active thyroid if left untreated.
A condition called Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands fail completely. This is usually diagnosed by finding low early morning cortisol levels, a high ACTH level and a poor response to an ACTH stimulation test. ACTH is secreted by the brain to stimulate the adrenal glands. In Addison’s disease, the adrenal glands have failed and the supplementation of ACTH does not result in the expected rise in cortisol. Occasionally, the adrenal glands fail because of disease of the pituitary gland in the brain which secretes ACTH. In this case early morning cortisol levels and ACTH levels are low but there is a rise in cortisol with the ACTH stimulation test.
Unfortunately none of these tests show the more subclinical but much more common disorder of adrenal fatigue. This disorder is better diagnosed by a series of salivary cortisol measurements throughout a day.
There is not an over night cure and someone suffering from adrenal fatigue needs to understand that it can be a long process before the desired results are achieved.
Management of Adrenal Fatigue:
The following steps play an important role in improving adrenal gland function.
Adaptogenic herbs- Rhodiola appears to work best in adrenal fatigue. Alternatives are Ginseng, Ashwagandha and Licorice.
Rachel is the founder and principal dentist at Evolve Dental Healing with over 30 years experience, practising holistically since 2001. Not your typical dentist, Rachel is a passionate opinion leader, challenging convention to empower people to make better dental and health choices, helping thousands to have healthy natural smiles. A respected writer and presenter on holistic dentistry, health and wellness it is Rachel’s mission to revolutionise the way people look at their dental health.
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References and Citations Mercury & Amalgam Fillings