The symptoms of adrenal fatigue can be similar to the signs of chronic stress. So, how would you know the difference between the two?
Here are four signs that your chronic stress and exhaustion might actually be symptoms of adrenal fatigue:
1. You shut down when you're overwhelmed.
If your exhaustion and stress levels are through the roof constantly, at some point, your mind and body may have had enough. This may lead to a simple shut down when you have to deal with any stress at all and become detached or non-reactive.
The ways your body reacts to and deals with adrenal fatigue depends on your personal body "type," says Dr. Carolyn L. Mein is a chiropractic physician with an active practice in Rancho Santa Fe, CA.
Stress is a constant part in our life, but if your chronic stress is causing symptoms of adrenal fatigue, it's time to take action.
2. You crave salty foods.
The adrenal glands can produce a steroid called aldosterone, and aldosterone's job is to help regulate your body's sodium levels. Therefore, when you are regularly craving for salty foods, it could be a sign your sodium is low as a result of adrenal fatigue.
3. Your immune system is down.
Do you always feel like you are cold or you have swollen lymph nodes? All of this emotional and mental fatigue, plus a lack of sleep, can wreak havoc on your immune system, making it easier for you to get sick.
4. You can't fall asleep, even though you're exhausted.
Even though you are tired every day, you still find it difficult to fall asleep. Whether your body feels wired with adrenaline or it's racing thoughts, you just simply can't unwind enough to go to bed and get the rest your body desperately needs.