Addison's

Question 1

What are the symptoms of Addison’s?

Answer 1

Hypotension
Hypovolemia
Hypoglycemia
Hyponatremia (salt craving)
Fatigue, weakness
Weight Loss

Hyperkalemia
Hyperpigmentation

Question 2

What are risks associated with Addisson’s?

Answer 2

Addisonian crisis
Hypoglycemia
Hyponatremia
Hyperkalemia

Question 3

What is the treatment for Addison’s?

Answer 3

Steroids
Hydrocortisone, prednisone, cortisone (glucocorticoids)
Fludrocortisone (mineralcorticoid)

lifelong therapy/no cure

Question 4

Patient education about the use of steroids for Addison’s

Answer 4

Increase dose in a time of stress
Do not stop abruptly
Take once a day, in the morning to minimize side effects
Long term effects: risk for infection, delayed healing, osteoporosis, signs of Cushing’s

Question 5

What kind of diet should a patient with Addison’s be on?

Answer 5

High protein
High carbs
High sodium

Low potassium

Question 6

What is Addisonian crisis?

Answer 6

MED EMERGENCY
a sudden, sharp onset of decrease in hormones that can lead to shock/circulatory collapse

Question 7

What are the signs/symptoms of Addisonian crisis?

Answer 7

Hypotension
Hyponatremia
Hypoglycemia
Dehydration
Fever
Weakness
Confusion
V/D
Pain
Shock leading to circulatory collapse

Question 8

What is Addisonian crisis triggered by?

Answer 8

Added stress (surgery, sepsis)
Abrupt stop of steroid use