How do adrenal fatigue and low thyroid differ. What are the main symptoms of adrenal fatigue. How is hypothyroidism diagnosed. Can lifestyle changes help manage both conditions.

Decoding Adrenal Fatigue and Low Thyroid: A Comprehensive Overview

Feeling exhausted, gaining weight unexpectedly, and battling irritability and anxiety are common symptoms that many individuals experience. These signs could point to either adrenal fatigue or low thyroid function, or in some cases, both. While these conditions share similar symptoms, they have distinct origins and require different approaches for management and treatment.

Adrenal fatigue, more accurately termed HPA-axis dysregulation, and hypothyroidism predominantly affect women, with the latter being 5 to 8 times more common in females than in males. Understanding the nuances between these conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and effective treatment.

The HPA Axis: Unraveling the Complexity of Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue, though not a recognized medical diagnosis, is a term commonly used to describe a set of symptoms associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation. This complex communication system involves the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, playing a pivotal role in our body’s stress response.

When stress occurs, the hypothalamus signals the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn prompts the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This stress hormone is beneficial in short-term situations but can lead to problems when chronically elevated.

The Impact of Chronic Stress on the HPA Axis

Chronic stress can overwhelm the adrenal glands, leading to disrupted communication within the HPA axis. This dysregulation can result in individuals feeling “wired and tired” or experiencing profound exhaustion. Additionally, the body may produce cortisol binding globulin (CBG) to protect itself from the pro-aging effects of excessive cortisol.

• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Difficulty managing stress
• Unexplained fatigue
• Mood swings and irritability

Hypothyroidism: When the Body’s Metabolic Thermostat Malfunctions

Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs. The thyroid gland acts as the body’s metabolic thermostat, regulating metabolism, weight, temperature, and heart rate. It also plays a crucial role in fertility and menstrual cycles.

Hypothyroidism can manifest in two primary forms: primary hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, or a condition where the body cannot effectively convert available thyroid hormone to its active form.

Hashimoto’s Disease: The Leading Cause of Hypothyroidism

For most women, the primary cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks its own thyroid tissues. However, other factors can lead to hypothyroidism, including subclinical hypothyroidism, an early form of the condition where lab results may appear normal, but symptoms persist.

• Unexplained weight gain
• Fatigue and weakness
• Cold sensitivity
• Hair loss
• Irregular menstrual cycles

Distinguishing Symptoms: Adrenal Fatigue vs. Low Thyroid

While both conditions can cause fatigue and weight gain, there are subtle differences in their symptom profiles. How can one differentiate between adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism based on symptoms alone?

Adrenal Fatigue Symptoms

• Difficulty waking up in the morning
• Afternoon energy crashes
• Increased energy in the evening
• Salt and sugar cravings
• Difficulty handling stress
• Weakened immune system

Low Thyroid Symptoms

• Constant fatigue, regardless of sleep
• Dry skin and brittle nails
• Constipation
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Depression
• Elevated cholesterol levels

Are there specific tests to diagnose these conditions? For adrenal fatigue, salivary cortisol testing throughout the day can provide insights into HPA axis function. Hypothyroidism is typically diagnosed through blood tests measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels, along with thyroid antibodies to check for Hashimoto’s disease.

Treatment Approaches: Tailoring Solutions to Each Condition

While both adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism benefit from lifestyle changes, their treatment approaches differ significantly. How do healthcare providers address each condition?

Managing Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue often responds well to lifestyle modifications without the need for medication. Key strategies include:

• Stress reduction techniques (meditation, yoga, deep breathing)
• Balanced diet rich in whole foods
• Regular, moderate exercise
• Improved sleep hygiene
• Targeted supplements (adaptogenic herbs, B-complex vitamins)

Treating Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism typically requires a combination of medication and lifestyle changes:

• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (e.g., levothyroxine)
• Regular monitoring and adjustment of medication dosage
• Dietary changes (avoiding goitrogenic foods, ensuring adequate iodine intake)
• Stress management
• Exercise tailored to energy levels

The Interplay Between Adrenal Fatigue and Thyroid Function

Can adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism coexist? Indeed, these conditions often overlap, creating a complex interplay of symptoms. Chronic stress can impact thyroid function, while thyroid imbalances can strain the adrenal glands. This intricate relationship underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.

The Cortisol-Thyroid Connection

Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, can influence thyroid function in several ways:

• Inhibiting the conversion of T4 to active T3
• Decreasing TSH production
• Reducing the sensitivity of cells to thyroid hormones

Conversely, low thyroid function can lead to increased cortisol production as the body attempts to compensate for reduced metabolism. This vicious cycle can perpetuate both conditions, making accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment crucial.

Lifestyle Interventions: A Holistic Approach to Healing

Regardless of whether one is dealing with adrenal fatigue, hypothyroidism, or both, certain lifestyle interventions can significantly improve overall health and well-being. What are some key strategies that can benefit individuals with either condition?

Nutritional Support

A nutrient-dense diet plays a vital role in supporting both adrenal and thyroid function:

• Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods
• Include lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates
• Incorporate foods rich in selenium, zinc, and iodine for thyroid health
• Consider adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola for adrenal support

Stress Management Techniques

Effective stress reduction is crucial for both conditions:

• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Engage in regular gentle exercise like yoga or tai chi
• Prioritize activities that bring joy and relaxation
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy for managing stress-related thoughts

Sleep Optimization

Quality sleep is essential for hormonal balance and overall health:

• Establish a consistent sleep schedule
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine
• Minimize exposure to blue light before bed
• Ensure a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment

The Role of Supplementation in Supporting Adrenal and Thyroid Health

While a balanced diet should be the foundation of nutritional support, targeted supplementation can play a beneficial role in managing both adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism. Which supplements are commonly recommended for each condition?

Supplements for Adrenal Support

• Vitamin C: Supports adrenal gland function and cortisol production
• B-complex vitamins: Essential for energy production and stress management
• Magnesium: Helps regulate the stress response and promotes relaxation
• Adaptogenic herbs: Rhodiola, ashwagandha, and holy basil can help balance cortisol levels

Supplements for Thyroid Support

• Selenium: Crucial for thyroid hormone production and conversion
• Zinc: Supports thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism
• Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production (but should be used cautiously)
• Vitamin D: Helps regulate thyroid function and reduce inflammation

It’s important to note that supplementation should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as some supplements can interact with medications or have contraindications for certain individuals.

The Importance of Professional Guidance and Personalized Care

Given the complexity of adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism, as well as their potential to coexist, seeking professional medical advice is crucial. How can individuals ensure they receive the most appropriate care for their specific situation?

Finding the Right Healthcare Provider

Look for a practitioner who:

• Has experience in treating both adrenal and thyroid disorders
• Takes a holistic approach to health and wellness
• Is willing to order comprehensive testing beyond standard thyroid panels
• Considers lifestyle factors and not just lab results
• Is open to both conventional and integrative treatment approaches

The Importance of Comprehensive Testing

Accurate diagnosis often requires more than basic blood tests. Comprehensive testing may include:

• Full thyroid panel (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, thyroid antibodies)
• Adrenal function tests (salivary cortisol rhythm, DHEA-S)
• Nutrient level assessments (vitamin D, B12, iron, ferritin)
• Hormone balance tests (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone)

By obtaining a complete picture of hormonal and metabolic function, healthcare providers can develop more targeted and effective treatment plans.

Empowering Patients: Self-Advocacy and Education

While professional guidance is essential, patients play a crucial role in their own health journey. How can individuals become active participants in their care and recovery process?

Educate Yourself

• Stay informed about the latest research on adrenal and thyroid health
• Join support groups or online communities to share experiences and learn from others
• Attend workshops or seminars on holistic health and hormonal balance

Track Your Symptoms and Progress

Keeping a detailed health journal can provide valuable insights:

• Record daily energy levels, mood, and physical symptoms
• Note the effects of dietary changes or new supplements
• Track sleep patterns and stress levels
• Bring this information to healthcare appointments to facilitate more informed discussions

Be Proactive in Your Care

• Prepare questions for your healthcare provider before appointments
• Request copies of all lab results and learn to interpret them
• Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns aren’t being addressed
• Advocate for comprehensive testing if you believe it’s necessary

By taking an active role in their health management, individuals with adrenal fatigue or hypothyroidism can work more effectively with their healthcare providers to achieve optimal wellness.

The Road to Recovery: Patience and Persistence

Recovering from adrenal fatigue or hypothyroidism is often a gradual process that requires patience and persistence. What can individuals expect on their journey to better health?

Setting Realistic Expectations

It’s important to understand that healing takes time:

• Symptom improvement may be gradual and non-linear
• Some individuals may experience temporary setbacks or “healing crises”
• Full recovery can take months or even years, depending on the severity of the condition

Celebrating Small Victories

Recognizing and appreciating small improvements can help maintain motivation:

• Increased energy levels, even if not yet optimal
• Improved sleep quality
• Better stress resilience
• Positive changes in lab results

Adapting to a New Lifestyle

Recovery often involves long-term lifestyle changes:

• Developing new habits around diet, exercise, and stress management
• Learning to prioritize self-care and set healthy boundaries
• Cultivating a support network of friends, family, and healthcare providers

By embracing these changes and remaining committed to their health journey, individuals can overcome the challenges of adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism and reclaim their vitality and well-being.

Adrenal Fatigue vs. Low Thyroid

Hands up if this sounds familiar: You feel exhausted, but you can’t sleep. Your weight is creeping up, but you don’t have the energy to work out or cook. You’re irritable and anxious, and you’re noticing more hair on the bathroom floor. It could be adrenal fatigue or low thyroid or… both. But how can you tell the difference?

Adrenal fatigue and low thyroid conditions can cause similar symptoms—but there are significant differences too. Both can be frustrating and seriously disrupt quality of life. But there is hope, and you can feel better and enjoy your life again! The trick is getting the right support, and that starts by narrowing down exactly what’s happening in your body.

In this article, I’ll teach you how to spot the differences between adrenal fatigue (and why this isn’t exactly the correct term) and hypothyroid, the signs and symptoms of both, and how they are diagnosed, so you can get the help you need to feel like yourself again.

How are adrenal fatigue and low thyroid different?

It’s common for people to confuse adrenal fatigue and low thyroid, as both conditions can lead to exhaustion, weight gain, and other symptoms. They also primarily affect women—women are 5 to 8 times more likely to have hypothyroidism than men. However, there are some critical ways in which they differ.

Adrenal fatigue is a condition that occurs when the adrenal glands, which produce stress hormones like cortisol, are sent the signal to stop producing as much cortisol or when the body creates proteins to bind it (more on this soon). On the other hand, low thyroid is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce thyroid hormone. The causes and treatments are very different (as I will discuss below).

Adrenal Fatigue AKA HPA-Axis Dysregulation

Let’s take a step back and look at the definition of each. Adrenal fatigue isn’t an actual diagnosis, but it’s what people commonly name the constellation of symptoms that occur with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis) dysregulation. Since so many people know it as adrenal fatigue, I’ll use that phrase throughout the article with the understanding that I really mean HPA-axis dysregulation.

The HPA axis is a complex communication system between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, adrenal glands, and adrenal hormones. It controls the stress response in our body. When we experience stress, the hypothalamus signals the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH then signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Cortisol is sometimes called the “stress hormone” because it helps us respond to physical, emotional, or mental stress.

Cortisol is helpful short-term, but when we experience chronic stress, the adrenal glands are cranking out stress hormones for longer than what they were designed to do. With HPA dysregulation, the brain and adrenal communication is thrown off, which can result in feeling “wired and tired” or just flat out exhausted.

In addition, in an attempt to protect the body from the pro-aging effect of cortisol, the body will produce a binding protein called cortisol binding globulin (CBG). CBG grabs onto cortisol so that it can not stimulate the cells in the body.

Low Thyroid AKA Hypothyroid 

Low thyroid, or hypothyroid, also shows up as fatigue, but it’s because the thyroid isn’t functioning optimally. Your thyroid is like the body’s metabolic thermostat, and it controls metabolism, weight, temperature, and heart rate. It also plays a major role in fertility and your menstrual cycle. With hypothyroid, you either don’t make enough thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs (primary hypothyroidism), or you can’t convert the available thyroid hormone to the active form.

The primary cause of hypothyroidism for most women is Hashimotos. In this autoimmune condition, the body mistakenly attacks its own thyroid tissues. But people can have hypothyroid for other reasons or even subclinical hypothyroid, which is an early form. With subclinical hypothyroidism, most labs technically fall within normal limits, but you can still have symptoms.

Both adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism benefit from lifestyle changes like diet, supplements, stress management, and sleep, but other treatments differ. Hypothyroidism may require medication to get the thyroid hormone levels back to normal. At the same time, adrenal fatigue can often be resolved without medication (but there are supportive supplements).

If you are wondering if you have either, it’s essential to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you and your doctor can manage both conditions effectively.

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Adrenal Fatigue (HPA-axis Dysregulation) vs. Adrenal Insufficiency

It’s important not to confuse HPA-axis dysregulation with adrenal insufficiency because they are very different conditions. Adrenal insufficiency is also called Addison’s Disease. It’s a serious, rare autoimmune condition that destroys the adrenal glands.

With HPA-axis dysregulation, there is no physical damage to the adrenals; it’s just that the adrenals are not functioning optimally or the cortisol they are producing isn’t being used by the body.

If your adrenals need a little TLC, I designed the Optimal Adrenal Kit to support a healthy adrenal function and overall hormone balance.

How to Know If You Have Adrenal Fatigue vs. Hypothyroidism

Differentiating between adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism is tricky but necessary, especially since they can go together. While lifestyle habits are essential for both, the treatments differ. Some of the symptoms mirror each other (or it’s possible to have both), and they can also be attributed to other conditions, especially in the early stages.

The following information shouldn’t be used to diagnose yourself, but it can be helpful to guide your conversation with your doctor or healthcare practitioner.

Signs and Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue

• Exhaustion 
• Insomnia 
• Feeling like you can’t turn off or unwind (“wired but tired”)
• Feeling stressed by everything
• Low libido
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• PMS
• Blood sugar dysregulation
• Anxiety
• Lightheadedness after standing up
• Low blood pressure
• General feelings of overwhelm about everything
• Poor concentration
• Difficulty recovering from exercise (or just like you can’t push yourself)
• Weight loss or weight gain

Are there blood tests for adrenal fatigue?

The short answer is no. There isn’t a set test for adrenal fatigue. If I suspect HPA-axis dysregulation with a patient, I always rule out other possibilities like thyroid first (which we’ll discuss soon). You can test for adrenal function via a urinary or salivary test. But if I suspect adrenal dysregulation and other conditions have been ruled out, I will usually suggest starting with HPA-axis targeted diet, lifestyle, and supplements to get started.

If we suspect adrenal insufficiency, a morning ACTH and cortisol test should be ordered, along with 21-hydroxylase antibodies in order to understand if this is the cause of symptoms. Again, this is separate from adrenal fatigue and requires working with a provider.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Thyroid Functioning

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Feeling cold all the time
• Anxiety or depression
• Weak nails
• Low heart rate
• High cholesterol
• Thinning hair or eyebrows
• Brain fog or memory issues
• Stiff or weak muscles and joints
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Infertility

Blood Tests for Low Thyroid Functioning

Unlike adrenal fatigue, there are specific blood tests for hypothyroidism, but sometimes you have to ask for a more extensive panel. Many doctors usually start with thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH is made by your pituitary gland, and its job is to stimulate the thyroid to make more thyroid hormone. If TSH is high, it usually indicates that the thyroid isn’t making enough, so it keeps pumping out more to compensate.

But a full thyroid panel is what I recommend, including:

1. TSH
2. Total and Free T4
3. Total and Free T3
4. Reverse T3
5. Anti-TPO
6. Anti-thyroglobulin

Testing for all of these, especially thyroid antibodies, gives a more complete picture of what’s happening in your body. Sometimes you can have normal TSH, but these labs are off, indicating issues with thyroid hormone conversion.

In the case of Hashimoto’s, thyroid antibodies (which measure autoimmune activity against the thyroid) are high and can start to rise long before TSH goes up.

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Common Causes of Adrenal and Thyroid Problems

Both adrenal and thyroid can have several underlying causes. The following lists aren’t exhaustive, but knowing some of the potential reasons for these conditions can empower you to dig deeper with your doctor.

What Causes Adrenal Fatigue?

The primary cause of adrenal fatigue is daily, chronic, unrelenting stress. Not everyone who deals with stress ends up with adrenal fatigue, but some people may be more predisposed. I’ve also seen situations where someone with a high-stress life appears to be managing just fine, and one extra thing tips them over the edge into adrenal fatigue.

Interestingly, from what I’ve seen in practice, hypothyroidism could predispose you to be more likely to end up with adrenal fatigue since the underlying cause is autoimmunity. Autoimmunity is inflammatory in nature and cortisol is a key hormone for managing inflammation. Inflammation is a stressor for the HPA system and can lead to symptoms of adrenal fatigue. 

Another factor is gut dysbiosis (imbalance of healthy gut bacteria) that can be linked to both adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism. Add lifestyle habits like over-exercise, not eating enough, not sleeping, and overdoing the caffeine, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for burnout.

What Causes Low Thyroid Issues?

The causes of low thyroid are better understood than HPA-axis dysregulation. As I mentioned earlier, Hashimotos is the most common type of hypothyroid and is caused by an autoimmune response.

Other hypothyroid causes include:

• Surgical removal of the thyroid (thyroidectomy)
• Radiation exposure as a treatment for hyperthyroid (overactive thyroid)
• Exposure to radiation in your environment (like at your job)
• Certain medications
• Environmental toxins
• Infections
• Too much or too little iodine
• Congenital disease
• Pituitary gland conditions

My supplement, Thyroid Support, is specifically designed to nourish and optimize your thyroid, plus give your body what it needs to use the thyroid hormone available.

What If You Have Adrenal Fatigue as Well as Thyroid Problems?

Adrenal fatigue and Hashimotos often go hand-in-hand. The adrenals and thyroid are both part of the endocrine system responsible for making hormones. When one system is out of balance, it can have a ripple effect on the other systems.

If you think you might have adrenal fatigue and/or thyroid issues, I recommend working with a naturopathic doctor or functional medicine practitioner who can order the appropriate lab tests and help you create a healing protocol that addresses both conditions. 

A combination of supplements, lifestyle habits, and medications (when necessary) can help get both adrenal and thyroid back on track. You can grab this free meal plan and recipe guide as a starting place for optimizing your hormones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Adrenal Fatigue and Low Thyroid

How Do You Reverse Adrenal Fatigue?

It’s absolutely possible to recover from adrenal fatigue, but it can take time and a targeted approach to your needs. A typical adrenal-supportive plan includes giving your body the nutrients to heal, learning to manage stress effectively, sleep hygiene, and avoiding things like caffeine and alcohol that can make things worse. Supplements to soothe the adrenals and help you sleep are usually included as well.

What’s the Difference Between Adrenal Fatigue and Adrenal Insufficiency?

Adrenal insufficiency, or Addison’s Disease, is a serious medical condition where the adrenals are damaged and unable to function. On the other hand, adrenal fatigue is not an actual medical diagnosis. It’s more of a catch-all term that’s often used to describe a collection of symptoms that happen when someone is chronically stressed. HPA-axis dysregulation is the condition most people are referring to when they say adrenal fatigue.

What Are Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems? 

Early warning signs of thyroid problems include fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, thinning eyebrows, feeling cold, and constipation. If you have any of these symptoms, I recommend working with a healthcare practitioner to get thyroid lab tests done.

Do Thyroid Problems Always Show Up in Blood Tests? 

No, not always. It’s possible to have subclinical hypothyroidism, which means your thyroid hormone levels are normal but still have symptoms. Also, some of the more basic thyroid panels don’t include all the thyroid measures, so it’s possible to have an imbalance even if your levels look normal. This is why it’s so important to work with a practitioner who can order the appropriate tests and also take your symptoms into account when making a diagnosis.

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What Does Thyroid Fatigue Feel Like?

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of adrenal fatigue and low thyroid. Thyroid fatigue is described as feeling exhausted all the time, even after a good night’s sleep. It can also include brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and feeling cold all the time.

Can Adrenal Fatigue Cause High TSH? 

If your TSH is high that points to a thyroid problem. The cause of that thyroid issue may be linked to an adrenal issue, like adrenal fatigue. It is important to look at the underlying cause of the thyroid issues and address those appropriately. 

Key Takeaways

• Adrenal fatigue and low thyroid are both common conditions that can go hand-in-hand.
• Adrenal fatigue can cause symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and a feeling of being “wired but tired.”
• Thyroid problems can also cause fatigue, brain fog, irregular periods, and weight gain.
• If you think you might have adrenal fatigue or low thyroid, I recommend working with a practitioner to get a proper diagnosis and create a healing protocol for you.

Balanced hormones are essential for optimal wellness. If you aren’t sure where to start, I’ve created a free Hormone Balancing Starter Kit to guide you on your journey.

Share this article:

References

1. American Thyroid Association. General Information/Press Room. 2022.
2. Sheng JA, Bales NJ, Myers SA, Bautista AI, Roueinfar M, Hale TM and Handa RJ. The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis: Development, Programming Actions of Hormones, and Maternal-Fetal Interactions.. Front. Behav. Neurosci.. 2021. 14. 601939.
3. Chaker L, Bianco AC, Jonklaas J, Peeters RP.. Hypothyroidism.. Lancet. 2017. 390(10101). 1550-1562.
4. American Thyroid Association. Thyroid Function Tests.
5. Pearce EN, Braverman LE. Environmental pollutants and the thyroid. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2009. 23(6). 801-813.
6. Endocrine Society. Adrenal Insufficiency | Endocrine Society.. Endocrine.org. 2022.

About The Author

10 Ways Thyroid Patients Can Beat Adrenal Fatigue

Jul 3, 2018

By

Mary Shomon

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Like many people who are hypothyroid or hyperthyroid, you may be sick and tired of feeling tired. Even after treatment, fatigue is one of the most common complaints of people living with a thyroid condition. Assuming that you are already being treated for a thyroid condition, the underlying cause for your fatigue may be a condition known as adrenal fatigue. Let’s look at 10 ways to tackle exhaustion that results from thyroid-related adrenal issues.

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Your adrenal glands are located on top of your kidneys and, along with your thyroid gland, are part of your endocrine system. Adrenal glands secrete key hormones including cortisol, which helps your body maintain glucose levels needed for energy. Another key hormone is epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, the “fight or flight” hormone. The body releases epinephrine — which raises your heart rate and sends blood to your muscles and brain — when you are in acute stress or danger.

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When you have chronically high levels of cortisol, you can have an autoimmune disease called Cushing’s syndrome. Chronically low levels of cortisol are associated with autoimmune Addison’s disease. Integrative physicians have identified another condition associated with insufficient — but not chronically low — levels of cortisol, known as adrenal fatigue, or adrenal insufficiency. The existence of adrenal fatigue is still considered controversial in some endocrinology circles.

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Integrative physicians theorize that when you have a preexisting endocrine dysfunction like hypothyroidism and are also exposed to chronic physical and/or emotional stress, your adrenal glands can become less able to produce enough cortisol, resulting in a chronic state of adrenal fatigue. Some doctors refer to this situation as non-Addison’s hypoadrenia, subclinical hypoadrenia, hypoadrenalism, or neurasthenia.

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In addition to fatigue and exhaustion, some symptoms of adrenal fatigue include:

• Feeling “tired but wired”
• Morning fatigue, feeling tired after sufficient sleep
• Feeling unable to cope with stress
• Cravings for sweet and salty foods
• Difficulty sleeping
• Being most energetic at night, waking in the middle of the night
• Low tolerance for and recovery from exercise
• Brain fog, difficulty concentrating

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Typically, in addition to a clinical exam and history of your symptoms, integrative or complementary practitioners run a 24-hour saliva cortisol/DHEA test. This test gets one DHEA(dehydroepiandrosterone) measurement, along with up to six cortisol levels — usually in the morning, midday, afternoon, dinnertime, bedtime, and middle of the night — to map your cortisol curve and identify any imbalances in your cortisol levels.

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If you are diagnosed with adrenal fatigue, a first step is to make sure you have optimized your thyroid treatment. If that does not resolve fatigue, there are other lifestyle, nutrition, and treatment approaches that can help get your adrenal function back into balance and improve your energy.

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If you feel tired, raise your hand. (If you get at least seven or more hours of sleep per night, put your hand down.) To those of you whose hands are still raised: Don’t blame your thyroid or adrenals if you are not getting the seven to nine hours of sleep that experts — including the National Sleep Foundation — say most adults need to function well. Your first step to combat adrenal fatigue, then, is to gradually increase your nightly sleep time, until you close that deficit.

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Stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, and simple sugar — as well as prescription stimulants such as amphetamines — may provide a short-term boost of energy, but in the longer term, they may further exhaust the adrenals, and make it harder for them to recover full function. Experts recommend that you limit or avoid any stimulant substances.

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It’s important to learn to manage your stress levels. While some stress is unavoidable, you can make lifestyle changes, such as:

• Avoiding stressful news and media
• Limiting exposure to high-stress, toxic people
• Changing a high-stress job, or getting off a night-shift job
• Avoiding multitasking

A therapist or life coach may be able to help you craft an effective approach to managing stress, including an active stress reduction practice.

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Most physicians who acknowledge and treat adrenal fatigue recommend that you manage your stress using an active stress-reduction practice that generates the relaxation response, as defined by Herbert Benson, M.D. These practices, which lower heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate, and help balance stress hormones, include:

• Breathwork — When you breathe deeply and properly, you increase the oxygen level in your blood, which can improve energy. Consider pranayama yoga breathing or Transformational Breath
• Meditation/guided meditation
• Gentle movements, such as yoga, qi gong, or tai chi
• Crafts and handiwork, such as needlework, gardening, or coloring, or breadmaking

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Processed and sugary foods, foods filled with pesticides and hormones, and foods contaminated with heavy metals are all dietary stressors. Experts recommend that for adrenal health, you should limit or remove these dietary stressors as much as possible and emphasize organic, hormone-free, pesticide-free meat, poultry, seafood, and produce, ideally as whole and not processed foods.

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Under the direction of a knowledgeable practitioner, supplements may help to balance your cortisol levels to relieve adrenal fatigue. These include:

• Adaptogenic supplements such as the Ayurvedic remedy ashwagandha
• Vitamin C
• Pregnenolone, a precursor for DHEA
• DHEA
• B vitamins, including B-12 and B-1/thiamine
• Iron
• D-ribose
• Licorice

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When you’re exhausted, exercising doesn’t come to mind as a solution. Research shows that regular, low-intensity exercise oxygenates your blood, improves heart and lung function, and can decrease your fatigue by 65 percent, and increase your energy by 20 percent. Until your adrenals are back in balance, limit adrenally-exhausting, high-intensity and endurance exercise, which can further strain your adrenal glands.

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Even mild dehydration is associated with an increase in fatigue. Getting enough water — known as rehydration — can reverse these effects and help improve your energy level. The old “eight glasses of water a day” is a good place to start. Some experts suggest as much as 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight. At minimum, drink enough so your urine is pale yellow or colorless.

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For more significant adrenal fatigue that doesn’t respond to supplements and lifestyle changes, some patients appear to benefit from adrenal glandular supplements. These supplements, which can help support low cortisol levels, include actual glandular material from animals. Note: Most healthcare providers do not recommend taking glandulars unless directed by a professional.

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If your adrenal fatigue is debilitating and cortisol levels significantly low, some physicians recommend a short course of prescription hydrocortisone, along with a program of lifestyle and nutrition changes and supplementation. The theory is that this gives your adrenal glands a short-term break, allowing them time to heal and return to full function.

Hormones, adrenal exhaustion and chronic fatigue. Abstract of a conversation with Pavel Baranov – Podcast #SEXHRD on vc.ru

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Hello everyone! #SEXHRD is a podcast for executives.

My name is Olga Zangieva, I am an HR therapist and ex-HRD in IT (Citymobil / VK, Sberbank). In organizational development and personnel management, for 13 years I know firsthand how the role of a manager can be isolated and even lonely when there is no one to discuss important, complex and vulnerable issues with.

In the podcast, we talk about what really worries managers of the new time – from anti-crisis and creative leadership to managing employees with mental disorders.

The theme of the first season: managing your condition and energy. With a variety of specialists, we look at the energy of a person through the prism of the psyche, physics, mind and spirit.

This format is for those who love notes. Below are key insights from a conversation with Pavel Baranov, a specialist in nutrition, endocrinology, eating psychology, Member of the Russian Association of Endocrinologists, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and The European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health.

Here are the thoughts that hooked me the most and motivated me to continue to study the topic in more depth.

Please share in the comments what you liked, what turned out to be the most relevant and interesting now.

Watch the video version.
Listen to the audio version.

1. The endocrine system is a collection of organs, tissues and cells that produce hormones.

2. Hormones are signal molecules that deliver information from a tissue, organ or cell to a target organ. This is something like information intermediaries, postmen who deliver a letter from point A to point B.

3. Hormones are really very important and they significantly affect our life, therefore, on the one hand, it is very important to know about the state of your hormones and check them regularly, but, on the other hand, the human body always strives to to homeostasis – the dynamic constancy of the internal environment. The endocrine system also maintains a state of homeostasis, that is, its normal functioning.

4. Real endocrine pathologies in humans are quite rare. And those diseases that occur frequently either do not significantly affect a person’s life, or they do, but are quite easily treated. Often some other problems that have nothing to do with the endocrine system are transferred to hormones. And, since most often people do not understand hormones, this becomes the reason for a lot of speculation and misconceptions.

5. Euthyroidism – normal functioning of the thyroid gland.

6. An abnormal thyroid gland can produce too much or too little hormone. And if she produces so few hormones that it becomes clinically significant, it can indeed give symptoms of fatigue, weakness, apathy. Important: it can give such symptoms, but it will not necessarily manifest itself that way.

7. The organ that regulates the intensity of hormone production, the pituitary gland, is also responsible for the function of the thyroid gland. This is a gland that is located between the brain and all other peripheral organs. TSH is a thyroid-stimulating hormone that allows you to understand how the thyroid gland functions. Normal TSH levels are 0.4 to 4.

8. Often, fatigue is caused not by a problem with the endocrine system, but by anemia (anemia) – this is when there is not enough hemoglobin and red blood cells in the body, due to which organs and tissues receive less oxygen and hypoxia (oxygen starvation) occurs. This can lead to weakness, lethargy, drowsiness, cognitive impairment.

9. Anemia is also infrequent at the present time and can appear against the background of large blood loss (heavy menstruation, hidden bleeding in the internal organs, etc.), against the background of iron deficiency (often found in vegans) or pregnancy.

10. But even more often the state of chronic fatigue and when a person “does not want to wake up in this world” is the result of psychotherapeutic and psychiatric problems.

11. Covid, the outbreak of hostilities, the need to make difficult and responsible decisions every day, problems with business provoked a large increase in depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, as well as cases of diagnosis of VVD (vegetative-vascular distance).

12. VSD is a diagnosis that is not found anywhere except in our country, and it usually means generalized anxiety disorder and other psychiatric disorders that are treated with psychotherapy and psychotropic drugs (antidepressants, antipsychotics, antipsychotics, etc. ).

13. Adrenal exhaustion, fatigued adrenal syndrome – also non-existent diagnoses, the treatment protocols for which do not correspond to the position of the international medical community (dietary supplements, nutritional protocols).

14. There is a real disease of the adrenal glands, which is associated with hypofunction of the adrenal glands, a lack of production of their own hormones. Adrenal insufficiency is a serious disease that manifests itself in much more serious conditions than fatigue. And in this case, a rather complicated treatment is assumed, without which, after some time, a person may die.

15. The diagnoses of “adrenal exhaustion” and “fatigue adrenal syndrome”, which are made today for every third person, are not connected with the endocrine system, but with a person’s lifestyle and his psycho-emotional state.

16. It is important not to forget about lifestyle. People do not want to take responsibility for their condition. It’s easier to refer to something that is difficult to control and say “I have a hormonal failure” than to start sleeping normally and give up bad habits.

17. A good doctor will always start with a discussion of lifestyle. A commercially oriented doctor will first of all refer you for tests and additional examinations (in a large number of private clinics, the doctor receives a percentage from each additional service sold to you and from each referral to another clinic doctor). Medicine, unfortunately, every year more and more turns into a business.

18. Oddly enough, but it is better to go to public hospitals and polyclinics (there are paid services there too), there you will, with a minimum probability, face the fact that they will impose something unnecessary on you.

19. What the doctor should definitely ask you about before prescribing additional examinations: what are your symptoms and complaints, what is your family history, what is your lifestyle, then there may be an examination of the skin, eyes, abdomen, hands. In most cases, a diagnosis can already be made at this stage. This is called the pre-test probability. And only after that, very precise analyzes are prescribed, which will allow you to check the preliminary diagnosis.

20. Studies show that checkups are more harmful than useful. Firstly, there is always an error in the results and approximately 5% of the indicators of each check will always show a deviation from the norm. Secondly, based on such results, there may be unreasonable interventions, operations, and so on. In addition, the “just in case” diagnosis breeds neurotic disorders, people become hypochondriacs and start to worry a lot about controlling their health, there is nothing good in this in the long run.

21. Screenings that have proven useful: colonoscopy (every 7-10 years after age 45), mammography (from 1-2 times a year to 1 time in 2 years, depending on age and medical history), studies during time of pregnancy.

22. When it comes to well-being, not only physical health is important, but also mental health. But for some reason, finding some kind of physical sore is normal, but finding some kind of psychological one is a shame. But there are positive changes in people’s attitudes towards psychotherapy.

23. In addition, the ability to manage one’s emotions, stress management, and lifestyle play an important role in a person’s condition.

24. If you find it difficult to adjust your lifestyle (sleep, nutrition, activity), you can try to contact a specialist who will help with this.

25. Three ways to drain energy: physical inactivity (a sedentary lifestyle), lack of sleep, lack of emotional hygiene and stress management.

26. Three ways to increase your energy levels: regular physical activity (weekend sports are worse than no sports at all), nutrition (make your own meals as much as possible), taking responsibility for your condition.

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Text synopsis of the issue: https://vc.ru/u/937764-podcast-sexhrd

Telegram channel of the podcast: https://t.me/sexhrd

Olga’s Instagram account https:// www.instagram.com/hr.therapist/

Pavel’s Instagram account https://www. instagram.com/pavelbaranov_md/

Endocrinology/dietology Telegram channel https://t.me/pavelbaranov_md

VK – Pavel’s page https://vk.com/pavelbaranov_md

Site https://hlsa.pro

*Instagram and Facebook are products of Meta, this organization is recognized as extremist and banned in Russia.

Endocrinologist Podolkhova named those who are at risk of adrenal fatigue syndrome

• Health

Do you find it hard to get up in the morning, often feel dizzy, hair fall out and blood pressure is low? These symptoms can be a manifestation of a variety of diseases. One of them is associated with an excess of stress in life – adrenal fatigue syndrome.

December 22, 20212

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The adrenal glands are a pair of endocrine organ – glands in the form of triangular caps that are located above the top of each kidney.

The main function of the adrenal glands is the secretion of adrenaline, norepinephrine, cortisol and aldosterone – hormones that affect the physical activity and emotional stability of a person, help the body adapt to stressful situations, regulate metabolism, increase immunity, and also participate in the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

– In modern medicine, there is a term “adrenal insufficiency”, it is often called “tired adrenal cider” – is a condition in which there is a steady decrease in the production of cortisol , – endocrinologist Natalya Podolkhova told Doctor Peter.

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue syndrome

• chronic fatigue,

• dizziness,

• distraction,

• inattention,

• difficulty concentrating,

• severe “waking up”,

• muscle weakness,

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sleep disorders,

• severe hair loss and dry skin,

• lowering blood pressure.

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue syndrome are very similar to hypothyroidism (an endocrine disease that develops against the background of a lack of thyroid hormones).

– It’s easy to explain, says the doctor. – With reduced cortisol secretion, the production of T3 and T4 (the main thyroid hormones) decreases. That is why the clinical manifestations are almost identical.

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The expert calls the main cause of adrenal fatigue syndrome frequent or prolonged stress.

– Adrenal hormones, namely cortisol and adrenaline, are the main components of the body’s stress system, explains Natalya Podolkhova. “Their joint activity allows people to get out of stressful situations, cope with anxiety not only on the physical, but also on the psycho-emotional level. If a person is in a state of stress too often, then the body will be in constant overstrain, which will lead to disruption of the adrenal glands.

The doctor notes that the causes of adrenal fatigue syndrome can be all conditions that cause strong and prolonged stress on the body.

Other causes of adrenal fatigue syndrome

• excessive physical and mental stress,

• lack of sleep,

• chronic pain,

• certain chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Read also

– People prone to depression and self-destruction (auto-aggression), melancholic, suspicious and anxious people, as well as workaholics , professional athletes, pregnant women, and young people are at risk of developing tired adrenal syndrome parents , patients with chronic diseases, says doctor Natalya Podolkhova.

When clinical manifestations of adrenal fatigue syndrome appear, it is necessary to consult an endocrinologist to determine the true cause of such symptoms. It is possible that another endocrine disease manifests itself in this way.