Every person’s health story is different. The information below explains common causes and contributing factors for this issue, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all prescription.
As a qualified naturopath practising in Adelaide’s CBD, I take the time to understand your unique circumstances, use targeted testing when needed, and design a personalised care plan so you can feel and function at your best.
Adrenal Fatigue
Everyone occasionally feels tired, but for some, the impact of fatigue may become debilitating.
The invisible nature of fatigue may lead to suffering in silence, as underlying causes are often missed with basic medical testing. Fatigue is the most common, unexplained complaint presented to General Practitioners.
Chronic stress may lead to Adrenal Fatigue or Stress Burnout. This process progresses in phases. Phase 1 is the Alarm Phase, otherwise known as Fight or Flight mode.
The stress hormones Cortisol and DHEA are both elevated at this point. Symptoms vary and may include:
- Dilated pupils
- Anxiety
- Palpitations
- Sweating
- Muscle tension
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Indigestion
- Disruptions in good gut flora
- Sugar cravings
- Decreased thyroid function
If the debilitating stress continues, changes begin, with the levels of stress hormone DHEA declining first, followed by cortisol.
Symptoms will reflect these changes, with the most severe consequence being the development of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Phase 2 is the Exhaustion Phase with possible symptoms, including:
- Constricted pupils
- Dizziness, fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Feeling cold
- Salt cravings
- Nausea, diarrhoea
- Weight gain due to higher insulin (insulin resistance)
- Low blood sugars
- Brain fog
- Hair loss
- Depression
- Low libido
- Alcohol intolerance
- Leaky Gut Syndrome
