159 Metabolism Terms

Endocrine system role in metabolism

Regulates metabolism through hormones released by endocrine glands.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis (HPA)

System that regulates hormone production throughout the endocrine system.

Insulin

Hormone that allows cells to take in glucose and prevents excessive breakdown of glycogen in the liver and muscles.

Glucagon

Hormone that increases blood glucose by signaling the liver to release stored glucose.

Myxedema

Severe hypothyroidism characterized by swelling and thickening of the skin.

Trousseau sign

Spasms caused by inflating a blood pressure cuff; indicates hypocalcemia.

Chvostek sign

Facial muscle twitching when the facial nerve is tapped; indicates hypocalcemia.

Metabolism

Collection of biochemical reactions in body cells that produce energy, repair cells, and maintain life.

Digestive system role in metabolism

Processes nutrients from food and transports them to cells for energy and cellular functions.

Hormones

Chemical messengers released by endocrine glands that regulate metabolism, growth, reproduction, and other body processes.

Hypothalamus

"Master switchboard" that receives signals from nervous and endocrine systems.

Pituitary gland

"Master gland" that controls the release of many hormones.

Pineal gland

Produces melatonin and regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Thyroid gland

Produces T3 and T4 hormones that increase metabolism.

Thymus

Stimulates production and maturation of T lymphocytes.

Adrenal glands

Produce corticosteroids and help the body respond to stress.

Pancreas endocrine function

Produces insulin and glucagon to regulate blood glucose levels.

Ovaries

Produce estrogen and progesterone to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Testes

Produce testosterone and regulate sperm production.

Primary functions of the endocrine system

Regulate metabolism, growth, development, reproduction, mood, blood glucose, and stress response.

Kidneys endocrine function

Release renin to regulate blood pressure.

GI tract endocrine function

Supports digestion and regulates energy balance.

Liver endocrine role

Metabolizes carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids and detoxifies substances.

Skin metabolic role

Assists with metabolism and excretes waste through sweating.

Heart endocrine role

Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Adipose tissue endocrine role

Stores energy and communicates with organs through hormone signals.

Metabolic disorder cause

Too much or too little hormone production disrupting homeostasis.

Common metabolic disorders

Diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, thyroid disorders, cirrhosis, Addison's disease, and Cushing syndrome.

Risk factors for metabolic disorders

Genetics, environmental factors, obesity, autoimmune disorders, tumors affecting endocrine glands.

Hemoglobin A1C normal range

Less than 5.7%.

Prediabetes A1C range

5.7-6.4%.

Diabetes A1C range

Greater than 6.4%.

Normal fasting blood glucose

70-100 mg/dL.

Prediabetes fasting glucose

100-125 mg/dL.

Diabetes fasting glucose

Greater than 126 mg/dL.

Normal sodium range

135-145 mEq/L.

Normal potassium range

3.5-5.0 mEq/L.

Normal calcium range

9-11 mg/dL.

Normal magnesium range

1.7-2.2 mEq/L.

Normal phosphate range

2.5-4.5 mg/dL.

Normal cholesterol level

Less than 200 mg/dL.

Nursing assessment for metabolic disorders

Obtain history, perform focused assessment, evaluate skin, hair, nails, thyroid, motor function, and sensory function.

Health promotion for metabolism

Maintain healthy weight, exercise regularly, attend follow-up appointments, take medications as prescribed, and reduce stress.

Collaborative therapies for metabolic disorders

Hormone replacement therapy, oral glucose agents, thyroid medications, physical therapy, dietitian consultation, and counseling.

Complementary therapies for metabolism

Acupuncture, meditation, yoga, massage, and nutritional supplements.

Most common metabolic disorder in pregnancy

Gestational diabetes.

Risks of gestational diabetes

Macrosomia, breathing problems in newborn, and increased risk of C-section.

Common metabolic disorders in older adults

Type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, and osteoporosis.

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