Unexplained Fatigue and Adrenal Dysfunction

Adrenal gland disorders can be challenging to diagnose because their symptoms are often nonspecific, overlap with other conditions, and develop gradually. Here are the key reasons why adrenal disorders are difficult to detect:

1. Nonspecific Symptoms
Adrenal disorders often cause fatigue, weight changes, dizziness, mood swings, or digestive issues, which can mimic common conditions like stress, depression, thyroid disorders, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

2. Overlapping Symptoms with Other Conditions
Many adrenal disorders, such as Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol) and Addison’s disease (low cortisol), share symptoms with conditions like diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or autoimmune diseases, making differentiation difficult.

3. Hormonal Fluctuations & Variability
Hormones produced by the adrenal glands, like cortisol and aldosterone, fluctuate throughout the day, requiring multiple tests at specific times for accurate diagnosis. A single test may not capture an abnormality.

4. Hidden or Subclinical Cases
Some adrenal disorders, such as mild adrenal insufficiency or subclinical Cushing’s syndrome, may not cause severe symptoms initially, leading to delayed diagnosis until symptoms become more pronounced.

5. Complexity of Diagnostic Testing
Dr Malik employs array of specialized testing to diagnose adrenal disorders, including:

ACTH stimulation test for adrenal insufficiency

Dexamethasone suppression test for Cushing’s syndrome

24-hour urine cortisol or salivary cortisol tests

Plasma renin and aldosterone levels for aldosterone disorders

These tests require expert interpretation, often by an experienced endocrinologist like Dr. Ayesha Malik, a Mayo Clinic-trained specialist in Weston, Florida.

If you are experiencing unexplained fatigue, weight changes, blood pressure issues, or hormonal imbalance symptoms, Dr. Malik offers advanced diagnostic testing and personalized treatment plans to help restore your health.

📞 Call 954-880-1010 or Schedule an Appointment Online Today!