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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Hypocortisolism - Addison's Disease

Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

In most cases, the symptoms come on gradually. Addison disease commonly causes these symptoms:

skin changes with areas of dark tanning, which is most visible on scars, skin folds, mucous membranes, and pressure points such as elbows, knees, and knuckles

low blood pressure, which may cause dizziness or fainting if a person stands up too fast

nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

chronic, worsening muscle weakness and fatigue

loss of appetite and weight loss

irritability and depression

craving of salty foods due to salt imbalance in the body

low blood glucose levels, called hypoglycemia, which is more severe in children than in adults

irregular or absent menstrual periods in women

If symptoms progress too long without treatment, the person may go into an addisonian crisis. Symptoms of this crisis include:

sudden, piercing pain in the abdomen, lower back, or legs

severe vomiting and diarrhea

dehydration

dangerously low blood pressure

loss of consciousness

Without treatment, addisonian crisis can be fatal.

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