Adrenal Fatigue Is A Collection Of Symptoms That Result From Low Adrenal Glands Functioning
Most commonly associated with intense or prolonged stress, adrenal fatigue can also arise during (or after) acute or chronic infections, especially respiratory infections such as influenza, bronchitis or pneumonia.
Adrenal fatigue can wreak havoc on your life. In the more serious cases, you may have difficulty getting out of bed for more than a few hours per day.
You may also experience changes in your carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. Your fluid and electrolyte balance, heart and cardiovascular system and even sex drive can be negatively effected as well.
What Causes Adrenal Fatigue?
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Adrenal Fatigue Symptoms:
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Is Adrenal Fatigue Common?
Adrenal Fatigue Tests You Can Try At Home:
Iris Contraction Test:
Sit in a chair in front of a mirror in a darkened room. Holding a flashlight at the side of your head, shine it across one eye (not into the eye). Watch what happens in the mirror and you should see your pupil contract immediately after the light hits the eye.
The pupil will normally stay contracted, but if you have adrenal fatigue, the pupil will not be able to hold its contraction and will dilate.
This dilation will take place within 2 minutes and last for about 30-45 seconds before it contracts again. Time how long the dilation lasts and record it along with the date. Retest monthly as it serves as an indicator of recovery.
Blood Pressure Test:
If your blood pressure drops when you stand up from a lying position, this typically indicates low adrenals. You can purchase a blood pressure gauge at your drugstore.
Make sure to do this test when you are well hydrated and lie quietly for about 10 minutes before taking your blood pressure (while still lying down).
Then stand up and measure your blood pressure immediately upon standing. Normally blood pressure will rise 10-20 mmHg from standing up. If your blood pressure drops, you most likely have adrenal fatigue.
Sergeant’s White Line Test:
While only present in approximately 40% of people with Adrenal Fatigue, this test can help to determine adrenal fatigue. Take a cap from a ballpoint pen and lightly stroke the skin on your stomach making a mark about 4”- 6” long. A white line should appear and redden within a few seconds. If you have Adrenal Fatigue, the line will stay white for about 2 minutes and will widen.
Can I look forward to good health again?
Yes, with proper care and lifestyle changes, you can lead a normal and healthy life again. Dr. Stephen A. Goldstein believes that safety and optimal patient care are of the utmost importance and will not be compromised under any set of circumstances.