Overview
The two adrenal glands are situated above the kidneys. They are made up of two parts: the cortex on the outside and the medulla on the inside. The cortex secretes three types of hormones known as corticosteroids.
Cortisol is a glucocorticoid, a corticosteroid that regulates glucose (blood sugar), inhibits the immunological response, and is secreted in reaction to stress. The pituitary gland, located right below the brain, regulates cortisol production. Cortisol is required for survival. Acute adrenal crisis is a medical emergency induced by a cortisol deficiency. Lightheadedness or dizziness, weakness, sweating, stomach discomfort, nausea and vomiting, or even loss of consciousness may occur in patients.
Adrenal crisis occurs when the adrenal gland deteriorates (Addison's disease, primary adrenal insufficiency), when the pituitary gland is injured (secondary adrenal insufficiency), or when adrenal insufficiency is not treated appropriately. Physical stress such as illness, dehydration, trauma, or surgery, adrenal gland or pituitary gland damage, and discontinuing steroid medication such as prednisone or hydrocortisone too soon are all risk factors for adrenal crisis.