The adrenal gland is situated above each kidney and makes a number of hormones; The middle (called the medulla) makes adrenaline.  The outer part (the cortex) makes three main hormones which are required for normal health; (a) Cortisol helps the body cope with stresses such as infection or injury and helps to control blood sugar levels. (b) Aldosterone regulates salt content and blood pressure. (c) Androgens are male hormones (for example testosterone) in both males and females.
 
Many types of adrenal problems can occur and most require specialist care. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a congenital condition resulting in low levels of cortisol and aldosterone and high levels of testosterone.  Untreated, this combination of abnormalities results in an inability to fight stress, poor control of blood pressure, low salt levels and early and/or abnormal sexual development. In some cases this can be a medical emergency requiring urgent medical attention. People with this condition require lifelong follow up in specialist hospital clinics