QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Steroids should in fact be doubled during illness to support the body in mounting a stress response. If steroids are being stopped, they should be weaned down slowly under guidance, but this should not be done during illness.
10000843
c
Slowly wean down the steroids throughout the illness
QuestionChoice
People who take steroid replacement therapy should aim to mimic what happens in the body when physiologically stressed by doubling their usual dose.
10000844
d
No changes necessary
QuestionChoice
When ill, physiologically there are more endogenous steroids released into our circulation. Patients with Addison's disease do not have functioning adrenal glands. This means they may not mount an adequate "stress response" that happens when healthy people become ill. Because of this, they should double their steroid dose until they feel better.
10000841
a
Double steroid dose
QuestionChoice
Patients should never reduce their steroid dose without special guidance as they may go into an adrenal crisis.
10000845
e
Half steroid dose
QuestionChoice
Patients who take long-term steroids, for example in Addison's disease, must never abruptly stop taking their steroids. They may go into an adrenal crisis due to the lack of cortisol. This can be fatal.
10000842
b
Stop taking steroids
Concept
Chapter
2693
3835
Adrenal insufficiency and Addison's Disease
Topic
133
Endocrinology
12715
A 17-year-old with Addison's disease is unwell with the flu.

What change to their usual medications should they make?
a