adrenal specialist tests overview

Overview

Adrenal specialist tests are a group of blood, urine, and imaging tests that check how well your adrenal glands are working. Your adrenal glands are small, triangle-shaped glands located on top of each kidney. They make hormones that control your body's response to stress, blood pressure, metabolism, and salt balance. These tests help doctors find out if your adrenal glands are making too much or too little of certain hormones.

Adrenal disorders are not very common, but they can affect people of all ages. Some conditions, like adrenal insufficiency, are rare, while others, like benign adrenal tumors, are more common in older adults.

Adrenal disorders can affect anyone, but some are more common in people with autoimmune diseases, those taking long-term steroid medications, or those with certain genetic conditions. Adrenal tumors are more common in older adults.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• High blood pressure that is hard to control
• Changes in skin color (dark patches or thinning skin)
• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
• Irregular periods in women
• Excessive hair growth or hair loss
• Salt cravings

Symptoms in children

• Slow growth or short stature
• Early or delayed puberty
• Frequent infections
• Low blood sugar symptoms (shakiness, sweating)

Symptoms in older adults

• Fragile bones (osteoporosis)
• Difficulty healing from minor injuries
• Confusion or memory problems
• Muscle weakness and falls

Causes

Main causes

• Autoimmune diseases (the immune system attacks the adrenal glands)
• Tumors (noncancerous or cancerous) in the adrenal glands or pituitary gland
• Infections (such as tuberculosis or fungal infections)
• Long-term use of steroids (like prednisone) that suppress adrenal function
• Genetic disorders (for example, congenital adrenal hyperplasia)

Risk factors

• A family history of adrenal disorders or autoimmune diseases
• Long-term use of steroid medications
• Having other autoimmune conditions (like type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease)
• Certain infections that affect the adrenal glands
• Older age (for adrenal tumors)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have symptoms of an adrenal crisis, such as severe pain, confusion, or fainting – call your local emergency number immediately.
• You are on steroid medications and suddenly stop them – this requires urgent medical advice.
• You have high blood pressure that suddenly becomes very high and does not respond to your usual treatment.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have ongoing fatigue, weight changes, or other symptoms that concern you.
• You have high blood pressure and it is hard to control with medication.
• You notice changes in your skin or mood that last for weeks.
• You have a family history of adrenal tumors and any symptoms.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and family history. They will perform a physical exam. If they suspect an adrenal disorder, they will order one or more specialized tests to measure hormone levels or look at the glands.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests: to check levels of cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline, and other hormones.
• Urine tests: to measure hormone levels over 24 hours.
• Saliva tests: to check cortisol levels at different times of day.
• ACTH stimulation test: to see how well your adrenal glands respond to a hormone called ACTH.
• Dexamethasone suppression test: to check if your adrenal glands are making too much cortisol.
• Imaging tests: CT scan or MRI to look for tumors or structural changes in the adrenal glands.

What to expect at your appointment

These tests are usually done in a hospital or specialist clinic. You may need to stop certain medications beforehand. Some tests involve a simple blood draw, others require you to collect urine for 24 hours. Imaging tests are painless. Your doctor will explain how to prepare for each test.

Treatment

Treatment for adrenal disorders depends on the specific condition. The goal is to bring hormone levels back to normal and manage symptoms. Your doctor will create a plan tailored to you.

Self-care at home

• Take all medications exactly as prescribed – never stop steroid medications suddenly without medical advice.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet if you have adrenal insufficiency.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and gentle exercise.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly if advised by your doctor.

Medical treatments

Treatment may include hormone replacement therapy (taking hormones your body is not making enough of), medications to block excess hormones, or treatments for the underlying cause (like infection). For some conditions, surgery may be needed to remove a tumor. Your healthcare provider will discuss the best options for you. Do not stop or change any medications without talking to your doctor.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is sometimes needed to remove a large or cancerous adrenal tumor, or to take out a gland that is making too many hormones. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the problem. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits.

Living with this condition

Living with an adrenal disorder often means taking daily medication, having regular check-ups, and paying attention to your body. You may need to adjust your medications during illness or stress – your doctor will give you a sick-day plan. It is important to stay in touch with your healthcare team.

Lifestyle tips

• Take your medications on time every day.
• Learn to recognize early signs of an adrenal crisis (like nausea, weakness, dizziness) and have an emergency plan.
• Carry extra medication with you when traveling.
• Avoid skipping meals – stable blood sugar is important.
• Get enough rest and avoid overexertion.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with enough salt (if you have Addison's disease) and proper hydration is often recommended. Your doctor or dietitian can give specific advice. Gentle exercise like walking or swimming can help maintain strength and mood. Avoid high-intensity exercise without medical clearance.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a chronic condition can be stressful and may affect your mood. It is normal to feel anxious or depressed at times. Talk to your doctor if you are struggling – they can connect you with counseling or support groups. Managing stress is an important part of your overall health.

Prevention

Most adrenal disorders cannot be prevented because they are caused by genetics, autoimmune conditions, or other factors. However, avoiding long-term use of steroids when possible, and following safety guidelines for steroid use, can reduce the risk of adrenal suppression.

Screening programmes

Routine screening for adrenal disorders is not recommended for the general public. However, if you have a family history of certain adrenal conditions, or if you are on long-term steroids, your doctor may monitor you with periodic tests.

Complications

If left untreated

• Adrenal crisis: a life-threatening emergency with very low blood pressure, vomiting, and confusion.
• Heart problems: from high blood pressure or abnormal hormone levels.
• Osteoporosis (weak bones) from too much cortisol.
• Poor growth in children.
• Increased risk of infections.

Long-term outlook

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with adrenal disorders can lead full and active lives. Adrenal conditions are often manageable with medications and lifestyle adjustments. It is important to follow your treatment plan and have regular check-ups. Your healthcare team is there to support you every step of the way.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.