Treatment:

In adrenal crisis, patients need an immediate injection of hydrocortisone through a vein (intravenous) or muscle (intramuscular). You may receive intravenous fluids if you have low blood pressure.

You will need to go to the hospital for treatment and monitoring. If infection caused the crisis, you may need antibiotic therapy.

Expectations (prognosis):

Shock may occur if treatment is not provided early, and it can be life-threatening.

Complications:

• Coma
• Seizures
• Shock

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have Addison's disease and are unable to keep your medications down because of vomiting.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you develop symptoms of acute adrenal crisis.