2.2 Digestive Disorders Flashcards
What is heart burn also known as?
acid reflux
What is heartburn?
occurs when stomach acid comes up the esophagus causing a painful, burning sensation that can lead to nausea, coughing, gagging, and hoarseness
What does the stomach lining have that the esophagus lining does not?
mucus lining protecting from acid
What is GERD?
gastro esophageal reflux disease that is diagnosed when a person experiences heartburn several times a week
What is the main cause of GERD?
weak esophageal sphincter
What are the treatments for GERD?
eating smaller meals lower in fat
chewing food thoroughly
avoiding overeatng
limiting coffee, tea, alcohol, and certain spices
waiting two hours to lay down
sleeping with head elevated
What is constipation?
when stools are hard, dry, and infrequent causes by slow movement of feces through the large intestine
What is the treatment for constipation?
change in diet or a review of medications
What medications can cause constipation?
medications containing calcium or iron
What diet changes can be made to improve constipation?
high fiber foods, whole grains, fresh fruit, veggies, and nuts
What is diarrhea?
loose, water, and frequent stools normally caused by infection or disease
What medications can cause diarrhea? Why?
antibiotics because they can destroy healthy bacteria in the colon
What can diarrhea lead to?
dehydration, excess loss of sodium and potassium
What is the treatment for diarrhea?
increase of fluid consumption: broth, tea, and low fiber foods
What is diverticulosis?
when small pouches push through weak spots in the colon
