The Endocrinology teams at ESHT are launching their first campaign to promote International Addison’s Disease Day.
Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism, is a rare disorder of the adrenal glands. Early-stage symptoms of Addison’s disease are similar to other more common health conditions, such as depression or flu with people experiencing a lack of energy or motivation (fatigue). It is rare endocrine condition, affecting 9,000 people in UK & Ireland so not uncommon for many secondary and primary care practitioners have little experience of adrenal insufficiency.
Conquest Endocrinology team
Eastbourne DGH Endocrinology team
Maria Ravelo, Endocrine Specialist Nurse said: “Patients with Addison’s disease have a high risk of developing an adrenal crisis which is a medical emergency and equally life threatening. By supporting this campaign, we aim to increase awareness of the condition and disseminate appropriate information to our healthcare practitioners, patients and other service users.”
Dr Sathis Kumar, Lead consultant for Diabetes & Endocrinology said: “We would like to raise awareness about Addison’s disease among the health care professionals in primary and secondary care. Especially about the management of ‘sick days’ with an appropriate increase of steroid dosage during any illness. This would help to improve the quality of care we provide and deliver appropriate management of the condition without delay.”
Aldons Chua, Endocrine Specialist Support Nurse said: “We provide regular teaching sessions for Emergency Hydrocortisone injection and sick day rules for our patients diagnosed with Addison’s disease and Adrenal insufficiency. This aims to help empower patient’s self-management of their condition in times of adrenal crisis which could also prevent long term hospital admissions or severe complications.”
The Endocrine team are focused on further developing their service and this year’s campaign on Addison’s disease International day is just the start.