Adrenal Glands

Stress & salt hormones

How does the adrenal Glands work?

Two small glands on top of the kidneys that make cortisol, adrenaline and aldosterone.

What they make

Cortisol (stress, blood sugar, daily rhythm), adrenaline (fight-or-flight), aldosterone (sodium and potassium balance).

'Adrenal fatigue'

The Endocrine Society states adrenal fatigue is not a recognized medical diagnosis. Real adrenal insufficiency exists and is diagnosed with tests.

Evidence & sources

• 'Adrenal fatigue' is not a real medical condition; there are no scientific facts supporting it. Evidence: strong. Known: Position of the major endocrinology society. Unknown: Symptoms people attribute to it are real and deserve evaluation. Source: Endocrine Society, Adrenal Fatigue (patient resource) (Current revision).

Connected topics

• Kidneys
• Stress Response
• Sodium
• Potassium
• Circadian Rhythm
• Endocrine System

Try it in your browser

General education only, not medical advice. Drafted Oct 2026 · pending qualified expert review.