Newly Diagnosed
Newly Diagnosed
WE ARE HERE TO HELP !
This page features a variety of support resources to help you connect with others, access reliable information, and manage life with adrenal insufficiency.
Keep Your Doctor Informed
Report Changes In Your Health
Keep your doctor informed if you’re not feeling better after starting treatment for adrenal insufficiency. Jot down any questions before your appointments to ensure you get the answers you need. Open communication with your physician is key to receiving the best care and support.
Ask About Stress Dosing
During illness, injury, surgery, or, for some, extreme emotional stress, additional medication may be necessary. The NIH provides Sick Day guidelines, but it’s important to review them with your doctor, as individual needs can vary.
Ask for an Emergency Letter
Request an emergency letter and keep it with you at all times. This document should outline your condition and medications, ensuring emergency medical personnel know how to provide the right care when needed.
Electrolyte Needs
Many patients with adrenal insufficiency (lack of cortisol) also lack Aldosterone. This is often called SALT WASTING. For those affected hot weather and exercise can contribute to dehydration and it is important to replace your fluids and electrolytes. Discuss your particular electrolyte needs with your doctor to supplement appropriately. Not everyone needs these replacements.
Emergency Injection Medication
Obtain a prescription for Solu-Cortef® or another emergency injection, and be sure to request proper training on its use. It’s advised to have multiple vials available, keep one at work, school, with each parent, or in other essential locations.
Your emergency injection may vary depending on your location and prescription. Many in our community prefer the Act-O-Vial (left), which combines the liquid and powder in one container, while others opt for the separate powder and liquid format (middle).
Check the vial before leaving the pharmacy to ensure you have the correct one. If you receive a powder-only vial, be sure to request the necessary liquid for mixing, as it won’t work without it. Keep in mind that Act-O-Vial lids may vary in color depending on the dosage—100 mg vials typically have a yellow top.
While not as common, some with adrenal insufficiency are prescribed dexamethasone injections. These will be in a prefilled syringe. Be aware that DEX does not contain mineralocorticoids needed by those with salt-wasting adrenal insufficiency.
Some physicians may believe an emergency injection isn’t necessary, assuming you can reach a hospital or have emergency personnel administer it. However, in many areas, protocols may not allow first responders to give this medication. The National Institutes of Health recommends that everyone with adrenal insufficiency carry their own emergency injection.
Visit Our Emergency Preparedness Page
WARNING! Never rely on social media or the internet (including this website) as a substitute for your physician. Instead, use these platforms to gather information and support, empowering you to have informed discussions with your doctor about your treatment plan.