Which finding indicates that a patient receiving hydrocortisone for adrenal insufficiency needs medical intervention?

When a patient is receiving hydrocortisone for adrenal insufficiency, the presence of signs of infection is particularly concerning and indicates that medical intervention may be necessary. Hydrocortisone, as a glucocorticoid, can suppress the immune response, which may mask or diminish the typical signs and symptoms of infection. This suppression can lead to serious complications if infections go unrecognized or unmanaged, making prompt evaluation and treatment critical.

While weight gain, increased swelling in the extremities, and persistent headaches are potential side effects or complications associated with steroid use, they do not indicate immediate medical intervention in the same way that signs of infection do. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain, or abnormalities in laboratory tests, is essential as infections can progress more rapidly in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy. This understanding highlights the need for vigilance in patients treated with adrenocortical agents like hydrocortisone.