Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a collection of nonspecific symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues. It is thought to occur when the adrenal glands cannot adequately meet the demands of stress.
The adrenal glands produce important hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline, that help regulate the body's response to stress as well as blood pressure, inflammation, and other essential functions. Chronic stress is thought to overwork and possibly "exhaust" the adrenal glands over time.
Common signs and symptoms of adrenal fatigue may include:
While some healthcare providers may diagnose and treat adrenal fatigue, there is currently no standard test or widely-accepted diagnostic criteria for identifying this condition. Some critics argue adrenal fatigue is not a real medical condition.
However, many integrative and functional medicine practitioners believe it exists on a spectrum and requires individualized treatment plans. Lifestyle changes like stress reduction, proper sleep, nutrition, and supplements may help support healthy adrenal gland function.
The best way to prevent adrenal fatigue may be developing long-term strategies to properly manage stress levels through:
If you suspect you may have adrenal fatigue or impaired stress resilience, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider. They can check for underlying issues and help create a tailored treatment plan if needed. Be wary of quick fixes found online that promise to "cure" adrenal fatigue. Sustainable lifestyle changes tailored to the individual offer the best path toward recovery.
Getting enough restorative rest and minimizing unnecessary stress is vital. Seek support if lifestyle changes alone are not providing improvement - numerous alternative and complementary healing modalities may help rebalance the stressed body and mind at Renew Wellness Clinic.