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Adrenal Insufficiency in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.

Adrenal insufficiency is a condition that develops when your child's adrenal glands do not make enough adrenal hormones. Adrenal hormones such as cortisol help your child's body handle stress, keep blood pressure normal, and balance salt and fluids. They control how his body uses sugars, fats, and proteins. An adrenal crisis happens when your child's cortisol and aldosterone levels suddenly drop. This may lead to low blood pressure, dehydration, and low blood sugar. An adrenal crisis is life-threatening and needs immediate treatment in a hospital. An adrenal crisis can happen if your child suddenly stops taking his or her medicine. It can also happen when his or her body is under more stress than usual. This may happen during surgery, an illness, or trauma.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

Call your child's doctor if:

Medicines:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

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Medical alert identification:

Have your child wear medical alert jewelry or carry a card that says he or she has adrenal insufficiency. You may get one from your local drugstore or ask your child's healthcare provider where to get one.

Medical Alert Jewelry

Ways to help your child:

Follow up with your child's healthcare as directed:

Visit your child's healthcare provider at least once a year or as directed. Your child's endocrinologist may have you check your child's blood sugar on a regular basis. He or she will tell you when and how often to do this. Your child's medicine may need to be adjusted over time. As your child grows, he or she may need more medicine to keep him or her healthy. He or she may also need blood tests to make sure he or she is getting the right amount of medicine. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.