Blog

Adrenal Fatigue is a syndrome that occurs when the adrenal glands are not working at the ideal levels. This leaves sufferers in a state which is over-stressed, fatigued, and generally run down.

Adrenal Fatigue can be caused by many different situations, and is often a multi-faceted problem. In order to cause adrenal fatigue, the adrenals need to be consistently activated for a period of time. This decreases the adrenal function, and results in one to many of the associated symptoms. Symptoms for adrenal fatigue include, but are not limited to, tiredness, unusual sleeping patterns, difficulty starting the day, underwhelmed feelings, and lack of motivation.

Decreased levels of cortisol can be seen, however it is not typically considered something that needs to be addressed in the medical world. Until the levels reach more dangerous levels, or physical damage is being done to the adrenal glands, there is not much that is done. However, in the alternative medicine world, there is plenty of ways to help support your adrenals and get you back to feeling well!

Dealing with adrenal fatigue can seem like a very daunting process. The symptoms can add up and equate to a general lack of motivation to address the situation. Depending on the symptoms, using an adaptogen may be an easy route. Adaptogens help to support the body by bringing into balance the adrenal hormones. It works on both high levels and low levels of cortisol.

Our favorite adaptogen in the office is Ashwagandha. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicines. If you are opposed to Ashwagandha for any reason, there are plenty of other options of adaptogens. There are even mixes of multiple adaptogens in one product so that you can reap the benefits of each one!

The most important issue to address with adrenal fatigue is lifestyle. Adrenals often become fatigued from being overstressed. Lack of stress management coupled with stressful situations can certainly run your adrenals down. Breathing exercises, physical activity, yoga, meditation, and even coloring can help you to manage stress.

As always, we are happy to help you address any health concerns here at the Hart Center. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and book an appointment!

If you are interested in reading more, here are some resources:

https://www.adrenalfatigue.org/what-is-adrenal-fatigue

http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/endocrine/adrenal-insufficiency-addisons-disease/Pages/fact-sheet.aspx

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279083/