things a medical student learns that you might not know #2

I apologize that it’s been awhile.

I thought I’d jump back in it by giving you a few clinical triads. The combination of these three symptoms is pretty indicative of a certain disease/medical issue and their combined presence warrants further investigation.

Diabetes Mellitus – inability of the body to regulate blood glucose levels

1. Polyphagia (increased eating)

2. Polydipsia (increased thirst)

3. Polyuria (increased urination)

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus – increased pressure on the brain due to a larger than normal volume of cerebral spinal fluid (brain juice)

1. Dementia (often presents as decreased memory)

2. Incontinence (bladder control issues)

3. Gait Abnormalities (balance issues while walking)

Shaken Baby Syndrome – a form of child abuse

1. Retinal hemorrhage (bleeding into the back part of the eye)

2. Subdural hematoma (bleeding in the brain caused by the shearing of veins that cross the brain’s protective coverings)

3. Acute encephalopathy (sudden onset brain dysfunction)

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