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Cause The disease is caused by a genetic defect of a gene ABCD1 gene on the X chromosome that causes a buildup of a specific type of fat in the body called very long-chain fatty acids. The myelin sheath insulates and protects nerve cells and when it breaks down, the nerves have trouble transmitting messages to or from the brain, and the body loses control of certain functions.
Symptoms The symptoms of adrenoleukodystrophy depend on the type of this disease: Diagnosis Early diagnosis of adrenoleukodystrophy is key to the potential success of treatment, especially with the childhood cerebral form. Diagnosis may be made using a simple blood test that measures the amount of very long-chain fatty acids in the blood.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, genetic testing to look for changes mutations in the ABCD1 gene, and skin biopsy also may be used. Treatment Treatment for adrenoleukodystrophy, due to its complexity and involvement of multiple organ systems, requires coordination of multiple specialties, including but not all inclusive neurology, endocrinology, and physical therapy.
Stem cell transplantation may slow or stop the progression of adrenoleukodystrophy in certain children if used early after diagnosis of the cerebral form of the disease.
This treatment seems to be more effective in patients whose high blood pressure is sporadic than in those patients whose high blood pressure is long lasting. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The sympathetic nervous system releases hormones that cause changes to occur throughout the body. The symptoms of Addisonian crisis include: I am stressed out very easily and annoyed by everything it seems.
The stem cells used for transplantation are taken from donor bone marrow or donor umbilical cord stem cells. This transplant does carry risks and is normally not recommended in children with severe symptoms. People with adrenal insufficiency will need replacement of adrenal steroids, including glucocorticoids hydrocortisone, prednisone, dexamethasone, etc.
In addition, physical therapy and medications may help relieve some of the physical symptoms of adrenoleukodystrophy. Some studies have shown that it may prevent or delay the childhood cerebral form from developing if given before children have symptoms, while other studies have not. A detailed discussion with your treating physician is needed to determine this treatment.
Prognosis The childhood cerebral form is progressive worsens over time and may lead to a long-term coma a few years after symptoms develop if left untreated. Accessed October 20, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. NINDS adrenoleukodystrophy information page. Childhood cerebral, Adrenomyeloneuropathy, Addison's Disease. Diabetes Guide for Older People The risk for diabetes increases with age, making diabetes common in older adults. For many, the hectic pace of modern life is to blame.
The lack of a biological explanation can be disappointing. Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may have symptoms similar to adrenal fatigue and may not respond well to antidepressants and counseling. And some patients do not believe that a mental health concern is the primary cause of their symptoms and many refuse medications due to concerns about their side effects. Navigating this ocean of uncertainty is not an easy task. Symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue probably have multiple causes.
Frequent follow-up visits and a strong patient-clinician partnership are critical elements for success.
Alternative and complementary clinicians often have better results, because the appointments tend to last longer and they view patients through a more holistic lens. An important word of caution: Cortisol replacement can be dangerous even in small doses. Unintended consequences can include osteoporosis, diabetes, weight gain, and heart disease.
Regardless of what we call it, there are millions of people suffering from similar symptoms, and a personalized plan that involves counseling, medications, supplements, lifestyle change, among others could work for many.
Improvement following these programs is slow, and the evidence is weak, but I hope advances in big data, genomics, and its relationship with the environment and the microbiome, may shine a light on how to better help people who suffer from these ailments. The adrenal fatigue theory may fit like a glove to explain your symptoms, which are very real. The path to feeling better may be closer than you think. What does that silly Harvard trained medical specialist know, anyways. You do YOU, Anne. Treat your adrenal fatigue and live life to the fullest.
Who was your naturopathic doc? I would love to know. I have similar issues and need help…badly! I had a horrifically stressful past two years with job changes and a death in the family and identified with the symptoms described above and more. After seeing regular doctors and a psychiatrist, I finally found a naturopath doctor who had me thoroughly tested. Once we got the right dosage I started to feel better within a few days. I can finally sleep and have more energy throughout the day.
I am proof that it does, and that it can be treated. Anne, your narrative is fascinating.
I was diagnosed with secondary adrenal insufficiency in , and see a very good endocrinologist for treatment. She says that cortisol levels do not remain constant, and normally fall throughout the day. But mentally and emotionally I am another person: Is one part of me dying and the other just watching? I think adrenal fatigue is real and could be the symptom of other illnesses. When your cortisol level is low for whatever reasons your blood pressure is bound to be low resulting in lethargy and general weakness. I am lucky to have lived now for 12 years with a heart transplant, requiring that I take myriad drugs to suppress my immune system and manage inflammation, as is the normal course.
With a suppressed immune system, one is vulnerable to infections and I have been no exception. Every winter I am sick sick sick with colds and bronchial infections verging on pneumonia.