Adrenal Glands in Children

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By Nicole Hoelscher
eHow Contributing Writer

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Adrenal problems in children are rare, but serious.

From the moment a child is born, the adrenal glands go to work, providing important chemicals for the body's "flight or fight" response to stressors. When they do not function as they should, parents must seek more information about these little-known glands.

Function

The adrenal glands produce hormones, such as cortisol and aldolsterone. In children, these hormones affect metabolism, stress response, body characteristics and blood chemical levels (Resources 1).

Location

The adrenal glands sit on the top of each kidney.

Problems

Cushing's disease occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldolsterone. These adrenal gland disorders typically affect adolescents and young adults but can occur in younger children.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Cushing's disease include weight gain, growth problems and high blood pressure. Symptoms of Addison's disease glands include fatigue, weakness, elevated pulse, skin discoloration and weight loss.

Causes

The National Institutes of Health state that some people are born with improperly performing adrenal glands, while others develop these conditions because of tumors.