What side effects should clients on fludrocortisone for adrenal insufficiency be instructed to report?

Clients taking fludrocortisone for adrenal insufficiency need to be aware of certain side effects due to the medication’s impact on fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. Fludrocortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid that has mineralocorticoid properties, which can lead to sodium retention and potassium loss. As a result, clients may experience edema, which is the swelling caused by excess fluid in the body's tissues. Rapid weight gain can also occur as a result of this fluid retention.

These symptoms are crucial for clients to recognize and report, as they can indicate potential problems with electrolyte balance or over-treatment. Prompt identification of these side effects allows for timely intervention to adjust the medication dosage and prevent more severe complications, such as hypertension and heart issues, that can arise from fluid overload.

On the other hand, while other symptoms might be concerning and warrant attention, they do not have the same direct association with fludrocortisone’s pharmacological effects as edema and weight gain do. This is why recognizing and reporting signs of fluid retention is particularly important for anyone undergoing treatment with this medication.