Addisons Disease

Classical Addison's disease results from a loss of both cortisol and aldosterone secretion due to the near total or total destruction of both adrenal glands. These glands form part of the endocrine system, which works with the nervous system and the immune system to help the body cope with different events and stresses. It helps maintain blood pressure and water and salt balance in the body by helping the kidney retain sodium and excrete potassium.

Addison's Disease occurs when the adrenal glands are unable to produce enough of the hormone, cortisol, and sometimes the hormone, aldosterone. Though Addison's is an autoimmune disease that affects roughly 1 in 100,000 people, it is a serious condition that can strike at any age and affects both genders equally.

There are many, many autoimmune diseases to choose from. They range from Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis to, Graves' disease, Narcolepsy to Wegener's granulomatosis. Each disease is different in how it manifests itself. There are some diseases such as Schizophrenia that many people do not realize is an autoimmune disease.

Arthritis in dogs is actually much more common in dogs that we believe. Dogs instinctually hide pain so as not show weakness. So, if they actually do show pain, it is very serious. There are two types of arthritis in dogs: Degenerative Joint disease and Inflammatory Joint disease. Degenerative joint disease affects the joints, hips, shoulders, back and neck; much like arthritis affect human victims.

Hyperpigmentation associated with malignants is most classically found with carcinoma of the lung. The pigmentation occurs because of the MSH-like activity of polypeptides elaborated by such tumors. Generalized melanosis may also be seen with advanced, widespread melanoma, in which case the color is due to the direct production of pigmented compounds by the malignant cells.

Addison's disease cause unexplained lethargy, gastric disturbances and inability to tolerate stress but can be treated if caught early with lifelong medication. Bloat is also a serious condition; symptoms include restlessness, inability to get comfortable, pacing and retching. The abdomen may also get swollen but not always. If an owner suspects a dog is bloating he should take them to a vet immediately as the dogs survival will depend on the speed at which care is given.

Vitiligo on the head may affect the color of the hair, though not always, leaving white patches or streaks. It will similarly affect body and facial hair. As with all auto immune diseases Vitiligo is not contagious, it affects only 1% to 2% of the population. There are treatments that can impair, some what the spread of the disease, or it can be disguised with medicated makeup.

Vitamin deficiency can cause a lot of trouble so why wait until it happens to you? They can range from mild to annoying and can easily turn serious if uncorrected in time. If you want to know what vitamin supplement is best for you, find out what deficiencies you want to avoid and which you want to correct.

There is another possibility, as some notice hair loss within the family. There are some forms of alopecia that have hereditary factors, so this is also to be considered. For example, those who develop alopecia areata at the age under 35 years have more possibility of having other family members also having this type of hair loss.