As the name suggests, this hormone helps to regulate mineral components in the body, namely sodium and potassium. Sodium and potassium are kept within very strict limits in the body. If there is a reduction in the production of the mineralocorticoid hormones, the sodium levels decrease and the potassium levels increase in the patient. Increased potassium levels can be life threatening by adversely affecting the heart muscle. Slow heart rates are one of the symptoms of patients with Addison's disease.
Glucocorticoids are another group of hormones that are produced by the adrenal glands.
These chemicals normally have many positive affects on the body. One of the roles of these hormones is to allow the patient to respond to stressful events. If the adrenal gland is unable to produce these hormones, as in Addison's disease, the patient can not respond appropriately and she, the patient, may begin to show some of the symptoms listed above. With a good history from the owner, a thorough physical examination and a blood test or two. We usually draw a blood sample from any patient who is ill.