Case study

Jeff is a 57-year-old male with a long history of type 1 diabetes. He takes insulin to manage his diabetes, but he has been having trouble maintaining steady blood glucose levels over the last two weeks. Jeff suffered a week-long case of influenza last month but is otherwise healthy. This morning, he began vomiting upon waking. This was followed by extreme abdominal pain and extreme thirst. He called his endocrinologist, who told him that he needs to seek emergency care.

1.) Briefly explain why Jeff has a feeling of extreme thirst.

2.) Briefly explain why Hiros food poisoning led to an electrolyte imbalance.

3.) In Hiros case, how is stomach acid related to the loss of potassium?

4.) How is Hiros specific gravity level related to his level of hydration?

5.) Explain how Hiros kidneys will help return his potassium levels to normal.