Adrenal Disease

Sarah Fishman MD PhD PC

Endocrinology, Diabetes, Thyroid, Hormone & Weight Loss Specialist located on the border of Midtown Manhattan & Upper East Side, New York, NY

When your adrenal glands produce too many or too few hormones, it can cause changes that affect you physically and mentally. Adrenal diseases, such as Addison’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome, require treatment from a doctor who specializes in hormone imbalances. At her practice in Midtown Manhattan, endocrinology specialist Sarah Fishman, MD, PhD, CNSC, uses her extensive background in adrenal disease treatment to help you recover your health and feel your best . Call the New York City office or book your appointment online.

212-729-8663

Adrenal Disease Q & A

What is adrenal disease?

Adrenal disease is a condition in which your adrenal glands produce too much or too little of a hormone, such as cortisol (the “stress hormone”). This kind of hormone imbalance can impact your metabolism, blood glucose level, immune function, and blood pressure.

What are the types of adrenal disease?

There are many types of adrenal disease, each with unique symptoms. They include:

Addison's disease

Addison's disease can cause chronic fatigue, weight loss, darkening skin, low blood pressure, and other symptoms.

Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome, or Cushing’s disease, can cause upper body obesity, high blood glucose, skin changes, and other symptoms.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

This condition can cause early puberty, acne, female facial hair, erratic menstruation, and other symptoms.

Pituitary tumors

Your pituitary gland controls your adrenal glands, so pituitary tumors are considered an adrenal disease.

The symptoms of a pituitary tumor vary considerably based on the type of hormone and whether you're making too much or too little of it. Some of the general signs of a pituitary tumor can include confusion, leaky nose, dizzy spells, seizures, nausea, and vomiting.

Pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma

This disease usually features high blood pressure and may also trigger sweating, rapid heartbeat, anxiety attacks, tremors, blurry vision, and other issues.

Hyperaldosteronism

Hyperaldosteronism, an over-production of aldosterone, affects your kidneys’ ability to regulate your salt and water balance. It generally causes hard-to-manage high blood pressure, and may also trigger other problems like headaches, muscle cramping, and frequent urination.

Because adrenal disease symptoms can vary so widely, it’s especially important to see Dr. Fishman for an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible.

How are adrenal diseases treated?

Treatment depends on your kind of adrenal disease and the specific symptoms you're having. In most cases, adrenal disease is treatable.

Dr. Fishman may prescribe medication to stop hormone overproduction or suggest hormone replacement therapy to normalize your hormone levels.

If nonsurgical care isn't sufficient, you may need surgery, such as tumor removal or adrenal gland removal. She personalizes a plan to optimize your health and wellness.

Dr. Fishman understands that adrenal disease symptoms can be frightening and worrisome, but she can demystify adrenal disease and help you recover with a compassionate, holistic approach. Call the office of Sarah Fishman MD PhD PC or click the online scheduler.

We offer weight loss and weight management treatments. Call us to book your appointment today