Tags
Addison's Disease, Addisonian crisis, autoimmune, common cold, dehydration, ER, hydrocortisone, low sodium, nyquil, potassium, primary adrenal insuffiency, secondary adrenal innsuffiency, steroids
Why do they call it that?
This is day eight for me with a cold and all the symptoms that come along with it. I am afraid that I will blow my brains out through my nose, or even worse, cough up a lung. I’ve been treating my symptoms with DayQuil/Nyquil but I’m still miserable.
So what can a body with autoimmune issues do? Just like normal people, nothing really except treat the symptoms.
With Addison’s Disease something as common as the “Common Cold” can quickly lead you into the horrible world of the ER. Because I take steroids everyday to treat my adrenal insufficiency, my body is less able to fight off infection. With a fever or without enough fluids a body can quickly dehydrate, which has always been a big problem for me. With the ”dehydration monsters” present you risk low potassium and low sodium, which can take me down the slippery road to an “Addisonian Crisis”. A very unpleasant place to find yourself.
NASTY GERMS!
So, my advice to anyone visited by the common cold this winter is to
- Rest, rest, rest
- Drink Plenty of fluids
- Try to eat something
- Watch for a fever
- Take whatever OTC “symptom killer” that you think might help (I like Nyquil, it helps me sleep)
- Wash your hands often to prevent spreading germs
- See your doctor if needed
and
If you have adrenal insuffiency increase your steroid dose as recommemded by your physician.
My doctor has advised me what to do when I am sick, and you must check with your own physician to get a recommendation for you.
Remember we are all different!
I have secondary adrenal insufficiency, and individuals that are primary or with other adrenal issues MUST talk to their doctor about their own treatment. I am not a Doctor.
