Which of the following is NOT a symptom of Addison's disease?

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In Addison's disease, the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient amounts of certain hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. As a result, individuals often experience a range of symptoms due to hormonal imbalances.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not typically associated with Addison's disease. In fact, individuals with this condition often present with low blood pressure due to decreased aldosterone, which is responsible for water and sodium retention. This leads to dehydration and can cause orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing).

Common symptoms of Addison's disease include fatigue, weight loss, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. Fatigue occurs due to a lack of cortisol, which is vital for energy regulation. Weight loss can result from diminished appetite and the metabolic effects of inadequate cortisol levels. Hyperpigmentation can be a notable symptom because increased levels of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) due to a lack of feedback from cortisol lead to increased melanin production by melanocytes.

Thus, the correct identification of hypertension as a symptom not associated with Addison's disease underlines the understanding of the hormonal imbalances characteristic of this condition.

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