In adrenal insufficiency (AI), the cortex does not make enough steroid hormones. ... In this rare condition, the adrenal glands do not work properly and cannot make enough cortisol (a “stress” hormone). Usually, production of aldosterone and androgens (the other hormones made by the adrenal glands) is also low. The adrenal fatigue symptoms are “mostly nonspecific” including being tired or fatigued to the point of having trouble getting out of bed; experiencing poor sleep; feeling anxious, nervous, or rundown; craving salty and sweet snacks; and having “gut problems,” says Nieman.
