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What is adrenal exhaustion?
By RWM
Adrenal exhaustion is definitely not a popular diagnosis in the medical
arena. This is probably so because symptoms of adrenal exhaustion can be
easily associated with other ailments or illnesses.
Adrenal exhaustion occurs when we get chronically stressed out. Stress
causes our adrenal glands to become worn out from continuous production of
the stress hormone cortisol. Studies are linking the production of cortisol
to memory loss, chronic fatigue and exhaustion. It is also associated with
excess fat buildup, compromised immune function and bone loss. Documented
studies have shown infertility as an outcome as well.
When our adrenals become stressed, we also experience hormonal imbalance,
especially to our thyroid gland.
Symptoms of adrenal exhaustion include low energy, lack of concentration and
dizzy spells. You may also experience insomnia, irritability, nervousness
and anxiety. Adrenal exhaustion can also come in the form of hot flashes and
night sweats and/or physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, heart
palpitations, sore knees, twitching muscles and environmental sensitivities.
It is said that adrenal exhaustion can lead to Chronic Fatigue Syndrom and
Addison’s disease.
So our adrenals are stressed out and exhausted, what can we do about this?
Stress is a hard case to solve. It can build up overtime or hit without a
moments notice. Nutritionally there are a few good natural products that can
help. Rhodiola and Siberian Ginseng help reduce the effects of stress.
Siberian Ginseng also regulates blood sugar and protects the adrenals. For
your thyroid, Ashwagandha is an excellent choice. This also increases
energy, supports the immune system and improves sexual function. Consult
your natural health practitioner for more alternatives.
Mentally, reduce your stress...be it meditation, yoga, extended
weekends...set your boundaries and stay calm.
It is important that you seek professional opinion and advice before self-diagonising
yourself with adrenal exhaustion, however there is a fairly effective test
you can try. Start by resting for 5 minutes, then take your blood pressure
count. Next, stand up and take another reading. If your standing count is
lower then your resting count, you can suspect decreased adrenal gland
function, also known as adrenal exhaustion.
For more details on this subject or to have your health questions answered
by a local expert, please email
experts@risingwomen.com |
