a reduced ability to mobilize defenses against stress

a condition where the medulla and/or the cortex of the adrenal gland is compromised in its production of epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, corticosterone and aldosterone. Cortical insufficiency produces a clinical condition called Addison's Disease, characterized by extreme weakness, low blood pressure and pigmentation of the skin. If severe enough, elective surgery such as implant surgery may not be indicated.

Also known as Adrenal Exhaustion or Low Adrenal Function, this is a condition where the adrenal gland is compromised in its production of epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, corticosterone or aldosterone. Symptoms include primarily fatigue, weakness, decreased appetite with ensuing weight loss, as well as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, or increased pigmentation of the skin. Cortical insufficiency (low or no corticosteroids) produces a more serious condition called Addison's Disease, characterized by extreme weakness, low blood pressure, pigmentation of the skin, shock or even death.

Copper accumulates in the liver of adrenalectomized rats; thus severe adrenal insufficiency may be accompanied by increased tissue copper levels. The release of copper from the liver is controlled by the adrenal glands through its influence on the synthesis of ceruloplasmin; the protein needed for its removal. A copper deficiency results in an increased ascorbic acid content of the adrenal gland.

when the adrenal gland fails to make enough corticosteroid hormones to help control important body functions such as blood pressure and energy usage.

common in CFS; characterized by fatigue, low blood pressure, and low production of stress hormones. May be a result or cause of the condition.

Related Topic"A condition in which the adrenal gland is compromised in its production of epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, corticosterone or aldosterone..."

In medicine, adrenal insufficiency (or "hypocortisolism") is the inability of the adrenal gland to produce adequate amounts of cortisol in response to stress. See also: Adrenal Fatigue or Hypoadrenia.