Final answer:
Patients with Addison's disease have low levels of adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol, which is treated with cortisol replacement therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with Addison's disease have a condition characterized by hyposecretion of adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol and often also aldosterone. This disease arises when the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, which might be due to autoimmune destruction, infections, or damage from other sources like a pituitary tumor reducing ACTH output. As a result, patients experience symptoms like low blood pressure, fatigue, muscle weakness, and cravings for salty foods. Treatment involves lifelong cortisol replacement therapy, which is essential for managing the disease.