Adrenal Fatigue: Symptom Profile and Clinical Reality Check

"Adrenal fatigue" is a term used in alternative medicine to describe a constellation of nonspecific symptoms attributed to chronic stress and hypothesized adrenal insufficiency. It is not a recognized medical diagnosis (not in ICD-10/11, DSM-5, or endorsed by major endocrine societies).

Reported Symptoms

• Persistent fatigue, unrefreshing sleep
• Cognitive difficulties ("brain fog")
• Salt/sugar cravings
• Weight gain (central)
• Mood lability, anxiety, low libido
• Muscle/joint pain
• Orthostatic hypotension/dizziness

Differential Diagnosis (Medical Conditions with Overlapping Symptoms)

• Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's): Confirmed by low cortisol, high ACTH, electrolyte abnormalities.
• Thyroid dysfunction: Hypothyroidism.
• Sleep disorders: Apnea, insomnia.
• Depression/anxiety.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
• Anemia, vitamin deficiencies (B12, D, iron).
• Medication side effects.

Recommendation

Seek comprehensive medical evaluation for treatable conditions. Avoid unproven supplements or "adrenal support" products. Stress management, sleep hygiene, balanced nutrition, and graded exercise are evidence-based for symptom improvement.