Adrenal gland problems in women

Adrenal glands are the parts of the endocrine system in the humans. They are ductless triangular glands placed above the kidneys. They are very small but can produce more than 35 different types of hormones, which control our emotions. It is believed that women are more emotional than men. Therefore, the adrenal disorders are considered to be more a female problem.

The adrenal gland produces hormones that manage stress, which is why the adrenal glands secrete adrenaline when a stressful situation happens. Furthermore, the cortex of the adrenal glands produces cortisol, which assists in converting of proteins into energy. Glycogen or stored sugar is also released and the body gets enough fuel. This energy speeds up the heart and respiratory rate, increases the blood pressure and slows down the digestion. Thus, the senses become more sharpened and the person becomes alert and focused.

Causes of adrenal gland problems in women

There are many factors that trigger adrenal gland problems in women. Obesity, alcoholism and smoking, as well as excessive drug intake, are the main causes for the occurrence of adrenal gland disorders in women. Furthermore, excessive consumption of sugar, caffeine, refined carbohydrates and improper or unhealthy diet may also lead to problems with adrenal glands in women.

Adrenal gland problems in women

One of the most common problems of the adrenal glands in women is adrenal fatigue. The adrenal glands usually have to keep the high levels of cortisol in order to fight against the stress. Therefore, they do not produce enough of other important hormones, such as estrogen. Because of this excessive production of cortisol, which may damage the healthy tissues of the body, adrenal fatigue occurs. Another problem of the adrenal glands in women is depression. When the adrenal glands do not function properly, mood swings, low stamina, poor memory and decreased sexual drive may occur. Insomnia is also a disorder that occurs due to malfunction of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands produce many hormones. When they produce them in improper proportions, it can affect the immune system of the body. The main complications of hormonal imbalance are excessive hair loss or growth, kidney damage, osteoporosis, allergies, high blood sugar levels and high blood pressure, as well as anxiety and irritability. Cushing’s syndrome is the condition marked by overactive adrenal glands. This condition usually appears in athletes and pregnant women. Addison’s disease is a condition marked by low production of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone by the adrenal glands.

Other adrenal gland problems in women include adrenal gland tumors and adrenal gland cancer.