Final answer:
Addison's disease, also known as adrenal insufficiency, is a disorder characterized by reduced cortisol production from the adrenal gland. It can result from adrenal gland malfunction or decreased ACTH availability. Symptoms include low blood pressure, weakness, fatigue, and salt cravings. Diagnosis involves blood and imaging tests, and treatment includes lifelong cortisol replacement therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Addison's disease, also known as adrenal insufficiency, is a disorder characterized by the reduced production of cortisol from the adrenal gland. It can be caused by malfunction of the adrenal glands or decreased availability of ACTH from the pituitary gland. Patients with Addison's disease may experience symptoms such as low blood pressure, weakness, fatigue, lightheadedness, and salt cravings. Diagnosis involves blood tests and imaging tests, and treatment usually involves lifelong cortisol replacement therapy.