Adrenal diseases, an umbrella term for medical conditions, can impact and lead to malfunction of the adrenal glands. These medical conditions can push the other body out of equilibrium by disrupting several bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, and stress bodies.
Women who are at their most sensitive and vulnerable selves during pregnancy are prone to more health risks due to adrenal diseases. The reproductive complications can range from gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, higher risk of infections, foetal abnormalities, preterm birth, and even miscarriage,” says a female gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri.
So what is an adrenal disease, what causes it, and how does one prevent or treat it during pregnancy? With input from Dr. Neelima Mantri, the best gynaecologist in Mumbai and a specialist in adrenal diseases, let us find answers to the questions in this blog.
Adrenal Glands – Key for Many Body Functions
The adrenal glands are tiny triangular glands at the top of our kidneys. These small glands are crucial in regulating hormones that control several body functions. Any malfunction of these glands directly impacts regular body functions, causing problems in the human body.
It produces Cortisol and manages metabolism, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. The Aldosterone it spawns controls blood pressure, while adrenaline is responsible for heightened alertness and an increased heart rate. Its Noradrenaline helps regulate blood pressure. Additionally, the adrenal glands are crucial for the production of sex hormones, contributing to the regulation of sexual development and function. So Adrenal Glands are essential for many body functions, and their malfunction is tipped to wreak havoc in the body.
Adrenal Diseases: What Causes Them?
Adrenal diseases occur when the adrenal glands overproduce or under produce hormones. Overproduction results in Cushing’s disease. Cushing’s excess cortisol leads to weight gain, high blood pressure, fatigue, and mood swings. Underproduction of adrenal hormones can result in Addison’s disease. This underproduction of cortisol leads to fatigue, salt cravings, and stress problems.
“There is no one specific cause for adrenal diseases. Autoimmune disorders, infections, tumours, genetic abnormalities, and long-term use of medications can trigger adrenal diseases,” says Dr. Neelima Mantri, the best female gynaecologist in Mumbai and a specialist in Adrenal diseases during pregnancy.
Adrenal Diseases – Impact on Pregnancy:
Untreated Addison’s disease increases the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and shock during pregnancy. Cushing’s excessive cortisol can lead to gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and an increased risk of C-section. The baby also faces a risk of congenital adrenal hyperplasia if the mother has a specific genetic form of Cushing’s disease. With proper medication and treatment, women with adrenal diseases can have healthy pregnancies today.
That said, proper preconception and prenatal care, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consultation with a gynaecologist can help reduce the risk of adrenal diseases during pregnancy. For more information on managing, treating, and preventing adrenal disease during pregnancy, you can contact gynaecologist Dr. Neelima Mantri here.