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Warning-sign checks

Addison disease: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Family members or caregivers may benefit from emergency training.

    These concerns usually need timely review but are not necessarily emergencies when the person is otherwise stable.

    Repeated vomiting, collapse, confusion, severe weakness, or inability to take replacement medicine requires emergency care.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the treating team promptly for repeated dizziness, weight change, persistent fatigue, new swelling, rising blood pressure, or uncertainty about illness dosing.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Regular follow-up is usually coordinated by an endocrinology team.

    Visits may review energy levels, weight, blood pressure while sitting and standing, dizziness, salt craving, swelling, sleep, and signs of too much or too little replacement.

    Follow-up should also include a review of sick-day rules, injection technique, medicine supplies, medical identification, and plans for travel or procedures.

The article also says

Blood tests may be used to monitor electrolytes and other health conditions.

Treatment decisions are based on the overall clinical picture rather than a single cortisol measurement while taking replacement medicine.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Addison disease. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.