by Luella May
(Health Secrets) Adrenal fatigue occurs when the adrenal glands can’t keep up with the demands placed on them by the body. It most commonly presents itself when an individual is under intense or prolonged stress. However, it can also be the result of acute or chronic infection or disease.
[Sponsor link: Adrenal Gland Healing & Rebuilding Protocol]
There are no tests that diagnose adrenal fatigue. Diagnosis is made by observing symptoms. The most prominent symptom is fatigue that is not relieved by rest or sleep.
People suffering from adrenal fatigue often resort to drinking coffee, caffeinated drinks or other stimulants for that much needed energy boost, not realizing that these methods do more harm than good. These types of beverages serve to further strain the adrenals.
In severe cases, adrenal fatigue can interfere with everyday life. The adrenal glands may be exhausted to the point that a person simply cannot get out of bed for more than a few hours a day. Additionally, weak adrenal glands affect every organ in the body. The body does its best to compensate for the weakened adrenals, but it does so at a price. If the adrenal glands cannot meet the demands of the body, something is going to give, and the first thing to “give” is energy, resulting in fatigue.
Adrenal fatigue has become more prominent in the last few decades. For example, it is estimated that only 16% of the population suffered from adrenal fatigue in 1966, while today that number has jumped up to 66%. Events following 9/11 account for this sharp increase, together with the stress that society lives with today. This stress includes global instability and economic uncertainty.
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue
Feeling tired for no reason, even after a good night’s sleep
Feeling overwhelmed
Difficulty in regaining energy after stress or illness
Craving salty and sweet snacks
Other signs of adrenal fatigue include:
Vertical ridges on the fingernails
A red tipped tongue
Hair loss
Nervousness, anxiety or panic attacks
Rapid heartbeat
Weight gain or weight loss
Frequent urination
Weakened immune system causing frequent illnesses
Acid reflux and/or indigestion
Stomach cramping
Muscular cramping
Headaches
Hypoglycemia
Diabetes