Adrenal Stress

Are you fatigued, exhausted, burned out, "no spark", noise sensitive, or light sensitive? These are the complaints I often hear from patients. Most are told there is nothing wrong with them, and perhaps it could be psychological.

Our hypothalamus adrenal pituitary axis (HPA) is constantly challenged daily. Such things as excessive noise, fluorescent lighting, poor diet, and disease processes can play havoc on the HPA axis. Eventually, we wind up with adrenal exhaustion, and signs and symptoms such as low blood pressure, increased thirst, increased sodium cravings and vertigo (dizziness upon sudden movement). To further compound the problem, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is present.

Interestingly enough, the HPA axis was first described by Dr. Style and his studies on adrenal fatigue. His research went on to investigate how adrenal hormones such as cortisol, epinephrine and norepinephrine can reach higher than normal levels with both psychological and physiological stress, thus causing immune dysfunction and exhaustion.

When we look at the diet, it is crucial to give up high-refined carbohydrates which can cause clinical suppression of immune system. These high-refined carbohydrates overwork the pancreas and adrenal gland. Remember your essential fatty acids, and do not overeat - moderation is the key.

Lack of sleep or "swing shifts" (day jobs that turn into night jobs) can cause pronounced immune function changes not to mention adrenal exhaustion.

Thyroid dysfunction and gonad dysfunction affect adrenal function and can lead to progesterone changes.

What can be done to check adrenal function? Lab (blood) tests such as cortisol and DHEA along with progesterone, estrogen and testosterone levels. Salivary hormone tests are also available.

Botanicals and supplements such as licorice root or tea (watch if you have high blood pressure), B5 pantothenic acid 250-500 mgs daily, B vitamin complex 100 mgs daily, and one adrenal glandular extract (chew one 4 times daily). If indicated, utilize natural cortisol, available by prescription, along with hormonal replacement therapies.

In conclusion, sleep 7-8 hours, setting up normal bedtime habits and waking hours; avoid weekend late nights. Most importantly, minimize stress. Turn down the volume on your TVs, radios, etc. Enjoy quiet moments. Keep to a minimum on cell phones, pagers, and computers. These all add external stimulus to your nervous system. Mild exercise helps reduce high levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Copyright ©2010 Integrative Medical Associates