Common Alterations in Endocrine Function

Common Alterations in Endocrine Function

Clinical Manifestations of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to various clinical manifestations. These can result in various symptoms, including increased metabolism, weight loss, appetite, and sweating. Cardiovascular symptoms include tachycardia, heart palpitations, and arrhythmias may occur. Nervous system symptoms include anxiety, irritability, and fatigue may be present. Musculoskeletal symptoms include muscle weakness, and tremors may be observed (Ross, 2022). Dermatologic symptoms include skin becoming warm and moist and hair-thin. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Ocular signs include exophthalmos. Women may experience irregular or heavy menstrual periods (Niedziela, 2021). Thyroid bruit, a fine, vibrating noise over the thyroid gland, is heard due to increased blood flow. Do you need urgent assignment help ? Get in touch with us at eminencepapers.com.

Physical examination may reveal tachycardia, goiter, and fine tremors. Hyperthyroidism can also result in secondary hyperparathyroidism due to decreased serum calcium levels, which can cause osteoporosis (Ross, 2022). Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent potentially serious complications like heart failure and osteoporosis.

Endocrine Functioning Alterations of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism leads to alterations in endocrine functioning. Some fundamental endocrine alterations associated with hyperthyroidism are increased metabolic rate, which occurs when the thyroid hormones stimulate metabolic processes, resulting in increased energy expenditure and elevated basal metabolic rate (Ross, 2022). There is increased gluconeogenesis because the thyroid hormones increase glucose production, sometimes leading to hyperglycemia. Increased lipolysis occurs as the thyroid hormones enhance the breakdown of fats, leading to elevated levels of free fatty acids. Increased protein synthesis is another alteration due to thyroid hormones stimulating protein synthesis, leading to increased muscle mass and decreased protein degradation.

Moreover, there is increased cardiac output because the thyroid hormones increase heart rate and contractility, leading to increased cardiac output. Altered bone metabolism also occurs as the thyroid hormones lead to decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis (Niedziela, 2021). An altered reproductive function can also occur, leading to abnormalities such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, and reduced libido in some cases.

References

Niedziela, M. (2021). Hyperthyroidism in adolescents. Endocrine connections, 10(11), R279. https://doi.org/10.1530%2FEC-21-0191

Ross, D. S. (2022). Overview of the clinical manifestations of hyperthyroidism in adults. UpToDate, Cooper DS ur. Internet]. Waltham, MA: UpToDate.

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Step 1 The scenario:

Your unit has hired a new nurse who has never worked with patients diagnosed with endocrine disorders. As a veteran nurse, you will guide the new nurse and help her locate the information she needs to assess her patients properly.

Common Alterations in Endocrine Function

Step 2 Select an endocrine disorder other than diabetes mellitus for this discussion and, if necessary, research the clinical manifestations of the disorder.

Step 3 Describe the alterations in endocrine functioning associated with your chosen disorder. Be sure to cite all sources and provide a reference using proper APA formatting.

Step 4 In addition to your original post, be sure to provide a meaningful response to at least two of your peer’s posts by Friday at 11:59 pm Mountain Time.

In your response to your peers, you might compare and contrast the manifestations of these disorders. What pathophysiologic concepts account for the differences and similarities you note?

Use your personal experience, if it’s relevant, to help support or debate other students’ posts. If differences of opinion occur, debate the issues professionally and provide examples to support your opinions.