History - Endocrine and Electrolytes

History

·        Symptoms widespread and often insidious

·        Enquire about previous endocrine gland problems, surgery, etc

·        Major symptoms:

·        Changes in appetite and weight:

·        Bowel:

o   Diarrhoea Ãž hyperthyroidism or adrenal insufficiency

o   Constipation Ãž hypothyroidism or hypercalcaemia

·        Sweating: hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, hypoglycaemia, acromegaly (also anxiety and menopause)

·        Subcutaneous thinning: either Â¯androgens (old men and post-menopausal women) or Â­ Cortisol

·        Amenorrhoea:  Â­PRL (by only a little), Â­Cortisol (takes bigger increase), Â­Â­hyperthyroidism

·        Nocturia: Â¯ADH, or Diabetes from Â¯insulin, Â­cortisol or Â­GH