Cortisol is commonly known as the “stress hormone”, as the amount of cortisol in the blood raises to combat stressful events. People with adrenal insufficiency need to learn to adjust their steroid dosages in times of physical and mental stress.
Some acromegaly patients may experience secondary adrenal insufficiency, either as a direct result of the mass effects of the pituitary tumour or as a side effect of treatment (e.g. surgery, radiotherapy). For these patients steroid replacement therapy becomes an essential part of their daily life, and is likely to be required lifelong.
For details on steroid replacement therapy and the use of hydrocortisone emergency kits, with step by step instructions, please download our information booklet “Hydrocortisone Advice for Patients”.
Emergency Document
Available to download as a Word document for you to fill in your own details including next of kin contact details, medical history and medication list.
Keep it at home and in your car, and with your emergency injection kit.
Everyone on steroid replacement therapy needs to have a hydrocortisone emergency kit. We suggest that you use a small snaplock-type container, clearly labelled for emergencies.
Ask your endocrine nurse to help you set this up and show you and your family how to use it in an adrenal crisis.