A patient with a history of ulcerative colitis presents to the clinic with complaints of fatigue, dizziness, and pallor. Upon further assessment, you suspect chronic blood loss. Which potential complication is most likely contributing to these symptoms?
Dehydration
Hyperkalemia
Iron-deficiency anemia
Electrolyte imbalance
The Correct Answer is C
A. Dehydration: While dehydration is a possible complication in ulcerative colitis, it does not explain the symptoms of fatigue and pallor.
B. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia is not typically associated with chronic blood loss and would present with symptoms like muscle weakness or arrhythmias.
C. Iron-deficiency anemia: Chronic blood loss from frequent diarrhea and ulceration of the colon in ulcerative colitis can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, causing symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and pallor.
D. Electrolyte imbalance: While electrolyte imbalances may occur with ulcerative colitis, they do not directly cause fatigue, dizziness, and pallor related to chronic blood loss.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Costovertebral angle tenderness: Costovertebral angle tenderness is more indicative of pyelonephritis (kidney infection) rather than cystitis, as it signals an upper urinary tract infection.
B. Suprapubic tenderness: Suprapubic tenderness is a classic sign of cystitis. This symptom, combined with dysuria and increased urinary frequency, strongly supports the diagnosis.
C. Abdominal distention: Abdominal distention is not typically associated with cystitis. It may suggest other conditions like bowel obstruction or ascites.
D. Lower extremity edema: Lower extremity edema is not a common finding in cystitis. It is more associated with systemic conditions like heart failure or kidney disease.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A history of chronic headaches and migraines: While chronic headaches and migraines can affect overall health, they are not directly related to pyelonephritis.
B. A history of gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome: Gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are generally unrelated to kidney function or urinary tract infections.
C. A history of cardiovascular problems such as hypertension: While hypertension can have indirect effects on renal function, it is not a common historical detail specifically associated with pyelonephritis.
D. A history of frequent urinary tract infections: Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a significant risk factor for developing pyelonephritis, as the infection can ascend from the bladder to the kidneys.
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