I was reading through your posts on Addison’s disease… I was diagnosed in 2008 at the age of 22… I have been very successful at managing my life with only one crisis. Some of the advice you have received seems really extreme! I am on a WAY smaller dose of cortisol than you and have elected to take dexamethasone because you only need to take it once (before bed) and it has a long half life which can be very helpful. During periods of stress, I do take more in the morning or late afternoon. I find that it’s not just physical stress that impacts my cortisol levels, but again, I am on a much smaller dose.

Like you my first year after being diagnosed was rocky–I moved to England and began teaching weeks after my diagnosis. The change put my stress levels over the top and the job was in tough, demanding school. I spent my fair share of days on the couch. However, I had a good year of travel and ran a half marathon and got myself together for the most part.

It’s been six years now, and I have a good idea of how to manage everything. My biggest issue lately has been in keeping weight on and maintaining a normal blood pressure. I have been increasing my floricortisol but when I work out I am getting dizzy. Anyway, if ever you would like to exchange war stories, let me know!

I tend to put a lot more topping on mine before baking – like a whole onion and half a capsicum in addition to the olives. Then after cutting into sectors for serving, I slice it horizontally and fill it to make a sandwich.

Focaccia write-up forthcoming!