When to stress dose
- Fever, infection, flu, stomach bug
- Injury, surgery, dental work
- Significant emotional stress (bereavement, major life changes)
- Intense physical exertion (e.g., marathon, heavy labor)
- Travel, especially across time zones
How much to increase
- Your endocrinologist will give you a plan. Common guidance: double or triple your usual hydrocortisone during illness.
- When in doubt, take extra hydrocortisone and call your doctor. It's safer to over-replace briefly than to risk crisis.
Mental health
- Living with a chronic condition can affect mood and anxiety.
- Consider support from a therapist or psychiatrist. Our directory lists mental health professionals who volunteer to support the Addison's community.