Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Overview
Know about the congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), what is it, types, what are the symptoms, causes, how it affects the health, diagnosis and treatment options. Learn about living well with CAH.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 4th Sep, 2025
Introduction
If anybody has been diagnosed with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), you might have questions about what it means, how it affects health, and what can be done to manage it. Don’t worry, this guide will explain everything in simple terms, so you can understand the condition better and take the right steps for care.
What is Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)?
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands, small glands located on top of the kidneys. These glands produce important hormones like cortisol (stress hormone), aldosterone (helps control salt and water balance), and androgens (male sex hormones).
In CAH, the adrenal glands do not make enough cortisol and sometimes aldosterone, while producing too many androgens. This happens because of a missing or faulty enzyme (usually 21-hydroxylase) needed for hormone production.
Consult an Endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Types of CAH
There are two main types:
1. Classic CAH – More severe, present at birth.
- Salt-wasting form: The body loses too much salt, which can be life-threatening if untreated.
- Simple virilizing form: Less severe salt loss, but causes early puberty and excess male hormones.
2. Non-classic CAH – Milder, may appear later in childhood or adulthood.
What Are the Symptoms of CAH?
Symptoms depend on the type and severity of CAH:
In Newborns (Classic CAH)
- Girls: May have enlarged genitals that look more male-like.
- Boys: May appear normal but develop early signs of puberty.
Both:
- Poor feeding, vomiting
- Dehydration (due to salt loss)
- Low blood sugar
- Weight loss
In Children & Adults (Non-Classic CAH)
- Early puberty (before age 8 in girls, age 9 in boys)
- Excess body hair (especially in girls)
- Irregular periods (in girls)
- Severe acne
- Short height (due to early bone maturation)
What Causes CAH?
CAH is an inherited condition, meaning it is passed down from parents. Both parents must carry the faulty gene (even if they don’t have CAH themselves) for a child to be born with it.
How Does CAH Affect Health?
If untreated, CAH can lead to:
- Adrenal crisis (dangerously low cortisol levels causing fatigue, vomiting, shock)
- Growth problems (early puberty can stop growth too soon)
- Fertility issues (especially in women with high androgen levels)
- High blood pressure or heart problems (if aldosterone is imbalanced)
How is CAH Diagnosed?
It includes:
- Newborn screening: Many countries test for CAH at birth.
- Blood & urine tests: Check hormone levels.
- Genetic testing: Confirms the type of CAH.
If you suspect CAH in yourself or your child, consult a doctor. Apollo 24|7 offers easy online consultations and lab tests to help diagnose and manage CAH.
How is CAH Treated?
While CAH cannot be cured, it can be managed well with medication and lifestyle adjustments.
1. Medications
- Hydrocortisone or Prednisone: Replaces missing cortisol.
- Fludrocortisone: Helps retain salt (for salt-wasting CAH).
- Additional salt intake: May be needed for infants.
2. Monitoring & Regular Check-ups
- Regular blood tests to adjust medication.
- Growth tracking in children.
3. Surgery (For Girls with Ambiguous Genitals)
- Corrective surgery may be an option, usually in early childhood.
4. Lifestyle & Diet Tips
- Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or illness.
- Eat balanced meals with enough salt (if advised by the doctor).
- Exercise regularly, but avoid extreme stress on the body.
- Manage stress, as it affects cortisol levels.
When to Seek Emergency Care?
An adrenal crisis is life-threatening. Seek immediate help if you notice:
- Severe vomiting/diarrhoea
- Extreme weakness or dizziness
- Confusion or fainting
- Low blood sugar (shakiness, sweating)
Living Well with CAH
With proper treatment, people with CAH can live healthy, active lives. Here are some tips:
- Follow your doctor’s advice on medications.
- Wear a medical alert bracelet stating your condition.
- Educate family & friends about adrenal crisis signs.
- Stay connected with support groups for advice and encouragement.
Final Thoughts
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia may sound complex, but with the right care, it can be managed effectively. Stay informed, follow medical advice, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. You’re not alone many people with CAH lead fulfilling lives with the right support.
Consult an Endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Consult an Endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Shruthi B
Endocrinologist
20 Years • MBBS,MD ( GEN MED) DM (ENDOCRIONOLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Shrikrishna V Acharya
Endocrinologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD, DM(Endocrinology), MRCP (Endocrinology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Chaithanya R
Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr. Mary Susan K S
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Consult an Endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Shruthi B
Endocrinologist
20 Years • MBBS,MD ( GEN MED) DM (ENDOCRIONOLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Shrikrishna V Acharya
Endocrinologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD, DM(Endocrinology), MRCP (Endocrinology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Chaithanya R
Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr. Mary Susan K S
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
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