Final answer:
Addison's disease is characterized by the body's inability to produce sufficient amounts of cortisol and aldosterone, leading to serious symptoms such as hypoglycemia, dehydration, low blood pressure, and hyperkalemia. Lifelong hormone replacement therapy is usually necessary for management of this condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lack of cortisol and aldosterone plays a significant role in the pathology of Addison's disease. Both of these hormones are crucial for maintaining various bodily functions, including metabolism and fluid balance.
Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone essential for glucose metabolism, immune response, and stress response. A deficiency in cortisol leads to symptoms like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), low blood pressure, fatigue, weight loss, and muscle weakness.
Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the blood. Without sufficient aldosterone, the body cannot retain enough sodium, resulting in excessive loss of sodium and water, which leads to dehydration, low blood pressure, and high levels of potassium (hyperkalemia). These symptoms often manifest as salt cravings, general weakness, and can be potentially life-threatening.
Patients with Addison's disease typically require lifelong hormone replacement therapy to manage these hormonal deficiencies and prevent the severe complications that can arise from them.