It's hard to believe it's been almost five years since my adrenalectomy! I am continuing to learn how to take better care of myself, which seems easier in theory than in practice. Despite what all the doctors said, there are changes that have had to be dealt with. The number enemy still remains to be S-T-R-E-S-S.
On the upside, I continue to live without the daunting effects of Conn's, like high blood pressure, bloatedness, fatigue, polyuria, brain fog (this was the worst), and paresthesia. With the aldosterone producing tumor gone, all of these side effects should be gone for all who choose surgery vs. living with the tumor and taking meds.
That said, as I've mentioned in other posts since the surgery, I have had a tough time with hypoglycemia and have to monitor my sugar levels constantly. While I was diagnosed with this years before the adrenal tumor, I notice its presence more now. I continue to be careful with making sure I have trail mix or nuts with me at all times, water too. I notice I am more prone to episodes when working out. Stressful days followed by a workout at the gym can make it worse. Symptoms include feeling faint, sweating, confusion, and shakiness. This can be a dangerous condition, so if you think you have it, consult your doctor.
Stress in any form seems to affect me more now than ever. Perhaps that is due to just one adrenal doing the work for two. I don't know. Memory issues have reared their head again, but this is not from Conn's, it was tragically caused by acute exposure to carbon monoxide my boyfriend and I suffered from in 2012-13. That story remains for another posting, another day.
But the good news is I have adopted a daily supplement plan that has made a big difference in my life. I am going to list these for you or anyone that may benefit. Please note, this is a personal regime, I am not a doctor and I do not advise anybody to take these without doing research or consulting a doctor.
For Stress:
B6
Omega 3's
Tumeric (also good for pain)
Theanine (anxiety)
Taurine (anxiety)
Vit. C (boosts adrenal hormones)
Ginger tea for stomach upset and reducing inflamation
Licorice tea for acid reflux, digestive issues and respiratory infections
For the Liver:
Milk Thistle
Alpha lipoic acid
N-acetyl-Cysteine
Vitamin E and D
For Adrenal Support:
Magnesium (this also helps with anxiety)
Zinc
Ashwaghanda
For Hypoglycemia:
L-Carnitine
Chromium Picolinate
Always follow the recommended doses.
**Remember, these are merely the things that I use to help my remaining adrenal gland and cope with stress. Always consult your doctor or Naturopath before beginning a supplement program.
Hopefully this information is useful to you. I always like learning what helps for others, so let me know if you have suggestions that have made your mono-adrenal journey better.
