Glossary On Special Instructions

‘What to do, what to avoid?’

Patients with Addison’s disease have to play an active role in the management of their health and this begins with understanding their disease.

Based on their experience and expertise, the nutritionists at Dr. Batra's have charted out certain nutritional guidelines for patients with Addison's disease. These have a scientific backing as well and can go a long way in helping patients to deal with their disease:

• Increase foods that support the immune and adrenal function such as garlic, onions, mushrooms, fruits, raw vegetables, sprouts and pearl barley
• Consume oily fish at least 3 times a week or flaxseeds everyday
• Avoid processed/fatty foods, red meat
• Avoid stimulants like alcohol and caffeine
• Avoid tobacco in any form

In addition, there are certain dos and don’ts for patients which can help them maintain optimum health:

• Always carry an identification card which clearly mentions about your condition
• The card should carry the name and number of your doctor and a relative who should be contacted during an emergency
• Do not skip your medicines and see your doctor regularly
• Seek immediate medical attention during an infection, diarrhea or vomiting since these can suddenly precipitate an addisonian crisis
• Carry an injectable form of cortisol, syringe and needle while travelling for handling any emergency
• Call your doctor or emergency care immediately if you begin to develop any of the symptoms of an addisonian crisis