Adrenal Insufficiency vs Addison's Disease

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Which hormone helps the kidneys retain sodium and excrete potassium in normal physiological conditions?

Epinephrine

ACTH

Cortisol

Aldosterone (correct)

How does a reduced aldosterone production impact sodium and potassium levels in Addison's disease?

Decreases sodium retention and increases potassium excretion (correct)

Increases sodium retention and increases potassium excretion

Increases sodium retention and decreases potassium excretion

Decreases sodium retention and decreases potassium excretion

What is the primary function of mineralocorticoid replacement therapy in Addison's disease treatment?

Enhancing stress response

Controlling electrolyte levels (correct)

Regulating metabolism

Boosting immune function

How does increased salt intake help compensate for the loss of sodium in Addison's disease?

It counters reduced aldosterone production Signup and view all the answers

Which medical condition can arise when a blood clot forms in a blood vessel and impedes the flow of blood?

Thromboembolic phenomena Signup and view all the answers

What role does hydrocortisone play in Addison's disease treatment?

Substitutes for cortisol Signup and view all the answers

What is a symptom of Cushing's syndrome related to electrolyte imbalance?

Salt craving Signup and view all the answers

How does dexamethasone suppress cortisol production in the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test?

By decreasing ACTH levels Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of adrenal corticosteroid deficiency as seen in Addison's disease?

Hyperpigmentation of the skin Signup and view all the answers

In Addison's disease, why do cortisol levels remain low despite the body needing it?

Damaged adrenal glands unable to produce enough cortisol Signup and view all the answers

Which system mainly stimulates the production of aldosterone in response to low blood pressure?

Renin-angiotensin system Signup and view all the answers

What is the main trigger for aldosterone release as per the text?

High potassium levels Signup and view all the answers

How does aldosterone impact the kidneys?

Promotes excretion of potassium and conserves sodium Signup and view all the answers

Which adrenal gland section synthesizes aldosterone?

Zona glomerulosa layer Signup and view all the answers

How does aldosterone affect blood pressure?

Increases blood pressure by promoting water retention Signup and view all the answers

How do corticosteroids primarily contribute to the treatment of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis?

By leveraging their anti-inflammatory properties Signup and view all the answers

In what way do corticosteroids affect blood pressure when used for medical purposes?

They can lead to hypertension due to fluid retention Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with the pharmacological use of corticosteroids if not carefully managed?

High blood sugar levels leading to hyperglycemia Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes corticosteroids from other adrenal hormones in terms of their effects on the immune system?

Corticosteroids suppress immune system activity Signup and view all the answers

How do corticosteroids impact electrolyte balance, particularly in relation to sodium and potassium levels?

They increase sodium reabsorption by the kidneys and enhance potassium excretion Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone acts on the distal tubules and collecting ducts of the kidney to increase sodium and water reabsorption?

Aldosterone Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary effect of aldosterone on blood pressure?

Maintaining blood volume by increasing sodium and water reabsorption Signup and view all the answers

Which adrenal gland hormone is pivotal for controlling fluid and electrolyte balance?

Aldosterone Signup and view all the answers

Apart from mineral balance, what is a key role of cortisol, another adrenal cortex hormone?

Regulating glucose metabolism Signup and view all the answers

Which adrenal gland hormone modulates the immune response by reducing inflammation?

Cortisol Signup and view all the answers

What does a lack of cortisol increase following an ACTH stimulation test indicate?

Primary adrenal insufficiency Signup and view all the answers

In Addison's disease, why are ACTH levels typically elevated?

To compensate for low cortisol levels Signup and view all the answers

What would contradict the expectation of Addison's disease in someone being evaluated for it?

High cortisol levels post-ACTH stimulation Signup and view all the answers

In secondary adrenal insufficiency, what is the primary issue that leads to low cortisol levels?

Low ACTH production by the pituitary gland Signup and view all the answers

How do ACTH levels differ between primary Addison's disease and secondary adrenal insufficiency?

High in primary Addison's, low in secondary adrenal insufficiency Signup and view all the answers

In individuals with excessive thyroid hormone levels, what effect on skin hydration is typically observed?

Thin, warm, and moist skin Signup and view all the answers

How does excessive thyroid hormone levels affect cholesterol in the body?

Decrease cholesterol levels Signup and view all the answers

What role do thyroid hormones play in bone turnover in adults?

Accelerate bone loss Signup and view all the answers

What gastrointestinal effect is associated with hyperthyroidism?

Diarrhea Signup and view all the answers

How do thyroid hormones influence muscle strength and control?

Increase muscle weakness Signup and view all the answers

What are the effects of excessive thyroid hormone on heart function?

Contribute to heart disease Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is commonly observed in individuals with hypothyroidism affecting the skin?

Cold and coarse skin Signup and view all the answers

What effect does thyroid hormone have on nerve conduction when levels are excessive?

Cause anxiety or nervousness Signup and view all the answers

How do thyroid hormones impact fat metabolism?

Increase fat mobilization Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of thyroid hormones on cholesterol synthesis?

Increase cholesterol synthesis Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of a hypotonic colon?

Constipation Signup and view all the answers

How does a hypotonic colon affect bowel movements?

Slows down bowel movements Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of a long-term indwelling catheter in managing urinary retention?

Providing a direct route for urine to flow out of the body Signup and view all the answers

Why does a hypotonic colon lead to abdominal discomfort?

Reduced effectiveness in pushing stool toward the rectum Signup and view all the answers

How does a hypotonic colon differ from a normal colon in terms of muscle tone?

Reduced muscle tone in a hypotonic colon Signup and view all the answers

What term is often used to describe a hypotonic colon?

Lazy colon Signup and view all the answers

How does reduced muscle tone in a hypotonic colon affect bowel movements?