Our adrenal glands may be small, but they play a big role in your daily life. They produce hormones that regulate energy, growth, stress responses, and even the body’s salt and water balance. When the adrenal glands don’t function properly, it can have a major impact on your health and daily well-being.
Adrenal disorder
Living in balance
What is Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)?
One of the most well-known inherited adrenal disorders is Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), a condition in which the adrenal glands are unable to produce cortisol and, in some cases, other essential hormones. In the past, this condition was also known as the Adrenogenital Syndrome (AGS).
In CAH, the production of a certain enzyme does not function as it should. As a result, the adrenal glands produce too little or no cortisol (the stress hormone), too many androgens (sex hormones), and sometimes too little aldosterone (a steroid hormone). This creates a hormonal imbalance in the body.
There are two forms of CAH: the classic form (the most severe type) and the non-classic form (a milder variant). The classic salt-wasting form affects an estimated 1 in 10,000 – 20,000 newborns. In the Netherlands, around 15 to 20 children are born with CAH each year. The non-classic form occurs in approximately 0.1-0.2% of the Dutch population.
Although CAH is considered a rare condition in the Netherlands, hundreds of people live with it – each with their own story and experience.
Possible symptoms
In classic CAH with salt loss, several symptoms can occur:
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Problems with growth and development
- Changes in menstrual cycle or fertility
- Mood swings or increased sensitivity to stress
In classic CAH without salt loss, the following symptoms may appear:
- Virilisation
- Early puberty
- Accelerated growth
Every person living with CAH experiences symptoms differently – which can make the condition difficult to recognise or fully understand.
Living with CAH
CAH cannot be cured, but treatment is available in the Netherlands. The therapy focuses on replacing the missing cortisol and aldosterone and reducing the excess production of androgens. Living with CAH can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you have to put your life on hold. Many people with the condition eventually find a balance that allows them to continue their work, relationships, and daily activities.
Good medical guidance, attention to lifestyle, and support from those around you can make all the difference.
Our commitment
At Goodlife, we understand how much a congenital adrenal disorder like CAH can affect your daily life. Together with healthcare professionals, we are committed to sharing knowledge and providing support that contribute to better care and an improved quality of life.
Our goal is to help you maintain as much control over your own life as possible.
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