Chapter 11: Endocrine System

Ruqayya Salam

-dipsia: thirst 5. Excessive thirst polydipsia Abnormal feeling of always needing

to drink fluids.

Polydipsia May be the cause of a physical or

emotional disease. Be be the symptom of high blood

sugar (hyperglycemia). Can detect diabetes.

Causes of Polydipsia Salty or spicy meal. Excessive loss of water and salt due to

vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or not drinking enough water.

Fluid loss during exercise. Bleeding to cause a decrease in blood

volume. Psychogenic polydipsia, the result of a

mental disorder

Symptoms of Polydipsia Blurred or double vision Confusion Chills and fever Fatigue Passing large quantities of urine Unexplained agitation

Polydipsia Drink more if you

are thirsty and consume adequate amounts of fluid everyday.

-prandial: relating to a meal 7. After a meal postprandial Postprandial somnolence is a normal

state of drowsiness after a meal. “Food coma”

Postprandial Somnolence Has two components:

Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system. This tells your body to slow down and digest.

State of sleepiness caused by the release of insulin. This causes your brain to produce more seratonin and melanin, which leaves you feeling drowsy.

Symptoms of Postprandial Somnolence Drowsiness Lethargy Lack of motivation

Prevent Postprandial Somnolence Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Eat sugary foods in moderation. Choose carbs wisely. Take a walk after meals. Ditch alcoholic drinks after a big

meal.