A study in London showed thirty-nine cases per million population as of 1960. Twelve were due to tuberculosis. In the non-tuberculosis group, women were three times more likely to have Addison' s disease. Extrapolation of these figures to the U.S. would give about 8,800 cases, but this is probably an underestimation. The slowly progressive loss of cortisol and aldosterone secretion usually produces a chronic, steadily worsening fatigue, a loss of appetite, and some weight loss.
Blood pressure is low and falls further when a person is standing, producing lightheadedness.
Nausea, sometimes with vomiting, and diarrhea are common. The muscles are weak and often go into spasm. There are often emotional changes, particularly irritability and depression. Because of salt loss, a craving for salty foods is common. Finally, the increase in ACTH due to the loss of cortisol will usually produce a darkening of the skin that may look like an inappropriate tan on a person who feels very sick.