15. Heart Rate and Rhythm Abnormalities – The Silent Beats
The heart, often unnoticed when it’s healthy, can become a source of concern for those with Addison’s disease. They may experience abnormalities in heart rate and rhythm, not as a result of cardiac issues but due to their primary adrenal insufficiency.
With a deficiency in cortisol, the body can struggle to maintain cardiovascular stability, leading to palpitations or an unusually slow heart rate. These symptoms can occur quietly, without pain or discomfort, but they are not to be taken lightly.
Patients might be advised to monitor their heart rate and to report any significant changes or concerns. It’s part of managing Addison’s, part of keeping a close eye on the body’s subtle signals.
Cardiac concerns in Addison’s are managed through careful monitoring and medication adjustments, tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring the heart maintains its rhythm and supports life as best as it can. (15)
