What are the adrenal glands?

We all have two small glands that sit over the kidneys. They secrete over 50 hormones such as: epinephrine, cortisol, progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA and DHEAs), estrogen, and testosterone. In females they are the only appreciable source of DHEAs and testosterone, and after menopause, the major sources of estrogen and progesterone. For men, they are the only source of DHEAs, estrogen and progesterone, and after andropause, the major source of testosterone.

Optimal adrenal health is one of the major keys to the enjoyment of life. We can't live very well when the adrenals are depleted. Most people who have depleted adrenal glands are not medical emergencies, but drag themselves through life not knowing what is wrong with them. These people are suffering from adrenal fatigue.

The definition of adrenal fatigue is the sub-optimal functioning of the adrenal glands at rest, under stress, and in response to constant, intermittent or sporadic demands. The onset of adrenal fatigue can occur after a long period of stress or one severe stressful event. It can occur after someone has driven themselves to exhaustion, overworked with little relaxation, or after extended or severe respiratory infections - flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, TB.

Adrenal fatigue can be diagnosed utilizing a thorough health history and physical exam, along with lab tests of saliva or blood.

Returning the adrenals to their optimal functioning state is an important part of optimizing your health at Balanced Wellness Medical Clinic. Live, laugh and love are lifestyle changes we promote!