Addison’s Disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones, particularly cortisol. Understanding how to provide first aid to someone with Addison’s disease can be lifesaving in emergencies. 

In this blog, we’ll share tips on how you can provide first aid to someone during an adrenal crisis. 

How To Recognise An Adrenal Crisis 

An adrenal crisis or Addisonian crisis is a severe and potentially life-threatening situation that occurs when the body doesn’t have enough cortisol. Symptoms can include: 

• • Fatigue 
  • Dizziness or light-headedness 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Confusion or irritability 
  • Low blood pressure 
  • Loss of consciousness 

If someone with Addison’s disease exhibits these symptoms, then it is essential to act quickly. 

How To Give First Aid To Someone With Addison’s Disease? 

Knowing how to administer first aid to someone with Addison’s disease can be lifesaving, especially during an adrenal crisis. Here are some steps to follow:

1. 1. Stay calm. Your demeanour can greatly influence a person in distress. Staying calm can help reassure them and create a more stable environment. 
   2. Assess the situation. Check if the person is conscious and able to communicate. Ask them about their symptoms and whether they have any other medical conditions or allergies.  
   3. Positioning. If the person is feeling dizzy or faint, help them lie down and elevate their legs to improve blood flow. If they are conscious, sitting them upright may help, but always prioritise comfort.  
   4. Keep them hydrated. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, provide sips of water to keep them hydrated.  
   5. Emergency medication. Many people with Addison’s disease carry an injectable corticosteroid (like hydrocortisone) for emergencies. If they have this on-hand, assist them in administering it. 
   6. Call 999. If symptoms are severe or if the person doesn’t respond to initial care, call emergency services immediately. Inform them that the person has Addison’s disease and may be experiencing an adrenal crisis.  
   7. Keep an eye out. Watch out for their breathing and consciousness levels. If they become unresponsive, be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.  
   8. Stay with them. Reassure them that help is on the way and that they’re not alone. 

For more information on how to provide first aid for someone with Addison's disease, have a read of this guidance from the Addison’s Disease Self Help Group.

Once the immediate situation is under control, follow up on their recovery and encourage them to contact their healthcare provider to discuss what happened and how they can adjust their management plan to prevent a future crisis. 

Dan shares his story on how he received medical care the first time he experienced an adrenal crisis, and how carrying an emergency injection kit and a medical wallet card is important. 

Russel shares his story on the importance of knowing when you’re having an adrenal crisis and what to do in that situation. 

Create a Supportive Environment

Education is important when supporting someone with Addison’s disease, whether it’s someone you know or a stranger in the street. Familiarising yourself with their treatment plan and emergency procedures is important if something was to happen to them in an emergency. Talking to them about their needs and feelings can help foster trust and safety and allow them to be more open about allowing you to help them.

By wearing a medical bracelet for Addison’s Disease, you can help speed up diagnosis in an emergency. Have a read of our other blog on why you should wear a medical bracelet if you have Addison’s disease. 

Alternatively, a wallet card can also help first responders know of your condition and allow people to identify your symptoms in an emergency. 

In conclusion, while an adrenal crisis can be alarming, knowing how to provide first aid can make a significant difference. By staying calm, being prepared and acting swiftly, you can support your loved ones and even people you don't know. By working towards a proactive approach to managing Addison’s disease, you can ensure that your loved ones always feel safe and supported every step of the way. 

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