What is the primary cause of Addison's disease?

Addison's disease is primarily caused by adrenal insufficiency, which is a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient amounts of cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone. This inadequate hormone production directly leads to the symptoms associated with Addison's disease, such as fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.

The autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex is one of the most common reasons for this insufficiency, affecting the body's ability to manage stress and maintain various bodily functions. Understanding that Addison's disease is characterized by a deficiency rather than excess hormone production is crucial for recognizing the distinct clinical picture it presents compared to conditions like Cushing's syndrome, which involves excess cortisol.

While other conditions like hyperthyroidism or adrenal overactivity primarily feature excess hormone production or dysfunction in different glands, they do not play a role in the development of Addison's disease. This clarification helps to solidify the understanding of how adrenal insufficiency leads to the symptoms and challenges faced by individuals with Addison's disease.