Asthenia

Definition

Asthenia is a medical term that describes a condition of physical weakness and lack of energy. It can be a side effect of certain medications, including those used to treat urinary and bladder disorders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Asthenia can be caused by urinary anti-infectives like nitrofurantoin.
2. Patients experiencing asthenia may report feeling unusually tired or weak.
3. Asthenia should be monitored closely in patients with pre-existing conditions that affect overall strength and energy levels.
4. Treatment for asthenia involves addressing the underlying cause, such as adjusting medication dosages or switching drugs.
5. Nurses should educate patients on recognizing signs of asthenia and when to seek medical advice.

Review Questions

• What is asthenia and how might it present in patients taking urinary anti-infectives?
• Which urinary anti-infective is commonly associated with causing asthenia?
• How should nurses manage patients who develop asthenia while on urinary anti-infective therapy?

Related terms

Fatigue:

A state of extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion or illness.

Adverse Reaction: An unwanted effect caused by the administration of drugs, which often requires discontinuation of the drug.

Urinary Anti-Infectives: Medications specifically used to treat infections in the urinary tract.