4. Hypotension – The Subtle Pressure Drop
Blood pressure takes a nosedive with Addison’s Disease, often leading to lightheadedness or dizziness. These aren’t just brief, fleeting spells; they can be persistent, affecting balance and orientation. Standing up becomes an action that requires caution, as the world can spin unexpectedly, and the ground can seem to rush up to meet them.
Aldosterone, another hormone produced by the adrenal glands, typically controls blood pressure by managing salt and water balance. With Addison’s, its production dwindles, causing the blood volume and pressure to drop. Blood struggles to reach vital organs, and without adequate pressure, oxygen and nutrients can’t be delivered efficiently throughout the body.
Daily life changes when you can’t trust your balance. Those with Addison’s often have to move slowly, allowing their bodies to adjust to prevent falls. Quick changes in posture are out of the question. The simple act of getting out of bed in the morning can become a calculated maneuver to avoid a hypotensive episode.
This symptom is deceptive; it doesn’t show but has tangible consequences. Falls are a real risk, particularly for the elderly, turning a simple stumble into a potential hospital visit. The threat of a fall means that many must modify their living spaces for safety, adding grab bars or avoiding stairs when possible, reshaping their sense of independence and mobility. (4)
