AYes — raised intracranial pressure (ICP) can occur in Addison’s disease, but it is uncommon.
The main link is severe hyponatraemia caused by cortisol deficiency (and, in primary Addison’s, aldosterone deficiency). Cortisol deficiency increases ADH activity and impairs free-water excretion, producing dilutional hyponatraemia.
How it can lead to raised ICP
Addison’s → cortisol deficiency → ↑ ADH + water retention → severe hyponatraemia → cerebral oedema → potentially ↑ ICP.
Acute, severe hyponatraemia can cause brain swelling and, in extreme cases, increased ICP, seizures, coma and herniation.
There are also reported cases of idiopathic intracranial hypertension associated with Addison’s disease and hyponatraemia, although this is rare and the exact mechanism isn't fully established.
Exam takeaway: Addison’s doesn't usually directly cause raised ICP; severe/rapid hyponatraemia secondary to adrenal insufficiency can cause cerebral oedema and raised ICP.
If you're asking because someone with Addison's currently has headache, vomiting, reduced consciousness, confusion, seizures, or visual symptoms, that needs urgent medical assessment.
