Signs Of Adrenal Fatigue You Shouldn’t Ignore

Have you found yourself battling unexplained symptoms of exhaustion and stress? These signs might be attributed to a condition that is often overlooked: adrenal fatigue. While not officially recognized as a legitimate medical condition by all in the medical community, the symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue are very real to those affected and can significantly impact one’s quality of life. In this post, we’ll go over the common symptoms of adrenal fatigue and when you should see a doctor.

What is Adrenal Fatigue?

Adrenal fatigue is theoretically caused by chronic stress that can lead to diminished adrenal gland function. The adrenal glands, which are small organs located above your kidneys, are responsible for producing hormones that govern your stress response, such as cortisol. When these glands are overworked, they may not produce hormones effectively, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms.

Signs of Adrenal Fatigue

Persistent Tiredness

One of the most common signs of adrenal fatigue is a constant feeling of tiredness that isn’t relieved by sleep. If you find yourself feeling sluggish and fatigued, even after a good night’s rest, it might be time to consider whether your adrenal glands are under strain.

Difficulty Getting Up in the Morning

People experiencing adrenal fatigue often have a hard time waking up in the morning, even after sleeping for 7 to 8 hours. This difficulty is usually accompanied by a feeling of grogginess that persists even after getting out of bed.

Increased Susceptibility to Infection

Reduced adrenal function can impair your body’s ability to fight off infection. If you find yourself catching colds or other infections more frequently than usual, it could be a sign that your adrenal glands aren’t managing your immune response effectively.

Cravings for Salty or Sweet Foods

The adrenal glands play a role in regulating your blood sugar. When these glands are fatigued, you might notice an increased craving for sweets or salty foods. These cravings are more than just a guilty pleasure; they could be a physiological cry for help from your adrenal glands.

Higher Energy Levels in the Evenings

Oddly enough, individuals with adrenal fatigue may notice a surge in their energy levels during the late afternoon or early evening, despite feeling exhausted throughout the day. This can disrupt normal sleep patterns, leading to a vicious cycle of nighttime wakefulness and daytime fatigue.

Unexplained Weight Gain

When your body’s response to stress is compromised, metabolism can slow down, leading to unexpected weight gain. This weight is often hard to lose, as normal metabolic processes are disrupted.

A Sense of Overwhelm or Inability to Cope

Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with day-to-day tasks can be a psychological symptom of adrenal fatigue. The inability to manage stress effectively can affect your mental health, leading to feelings of depression or anxiety.

Adrenal Fatigue Treatment in Tampa Bay

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, consider visiting your doctor for a thorough evaluation. While adrenal fatigue is a subject of debate among healthcare professionals, the symptoms are very real and the cause should be addressed. A medical assessment can also help rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. If you’re in the Tampa Bay area and need a quality internal medicine doctor to help you with adrenal fatigue symptoms, Dr. Kavita Rao and her team are here to help. Call us at 727-525-0900 to schedule an appointment and start the journey towards reclaiming your quality of life.