Endocrine Emergencies Flashcards
What is a thyroid storm
Occurs when hypothyroidism is untreated, causing the release of too many thyroid hormones
SS of a thyroid storm
Tachycardia
Hypertension
Fever
Jaundice
Diarrhea
Agitation / confusion
What is an adrenal crisis?
A medical emergency caused by a lack of cortisol.
SS of adrenal crisis
Lightheadedness / dizziness
Sweating
Weakness
Abdominal pain
Nausea / Vommiting
Loss of consciousness
What causes an adrenal crisis?
Damage to adrenal gland (Addison disease, adrenal disease, surgery)
The pituitary is coming injured and cannot release ACTH
What is a common hX of a patient experiencing an adrenal crisis?
Addison disease
What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis? (DKA)
When the body doesn’t have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into cells to use as energy.
Instead, the liver breaks down fat for fuel, a process that releases acids called KETONES.
What kind of diabetic is more likely to experience DKA?
Type 1
SS of DKA
FRUITY SMELLING BREATH
Intense thirst
Frequent urination
Fast, deep breathing
Flushed face
Dry skin / mouth
Nausea / Vomiting
Tiredness
Abdominal pain
What causes DKA?
High blood sugar + low insulin
Skipping meals
Skipping insulin shots
MI / stroke
Trauma
Alcohol or drug use
What is diabetes?
A disease in which the body either can’t produce insulin, or can’t use the insulin it produces.
What is the role of insulin in the body?
Regulates the amount of glucose in blood.
Is needed in order to use glucose for energy.
What is type 1 diabetes?
“Insulin dependent diabetes”
Unable to produce their own insulin, or regulate their own blood sugar.
Typically manifests during childhood, but can become present at any time.
What is type 2 diabetes?
The inability to use the insulin that their body has made,
Can be sometimes regulated with a healthy diet and exercise
90% of diabetics are type 2
What is gestational diabetes?
Diabetes that occurs TEMPORARILY during a pregnancy
