Digestive System Flashcards
Explains the structure and function of the digestive tract, common disorders, and diagnostic procedures like endoscopy and colonoscopy. (100 cards)
1
Q
Define:
Mouth
A
The opening in the face where food enters the body, containing the teeth and tongue, and responsible for the initial stages of digestion.
The dentist examined the patient’s mouth for any signs of cavities or gum disease.
2
Q
Define:
Teeth
A
Hard, calcified structures in the mouth used for biting and chewing food.
She had to visit the orthodontist to correct the alignment of her teeth.
3
Q
Define:
Tongue
A
A muscular organ in the mouth that aids in tasting, swallowing, and speaking.
The doctor asked the patient to stick out their tongue for examination.
4
Q
Define:
Salivary Glands
A
Glands in the mouth that produce saliva to aid in digestion and keep the mouth moist.
The salivary glands help break down food as it is chewed.
5
Q
Define:
Pharynx
A
The muscular tube that connects the mouth and nasal passages to the esophagus and larynx, playing a role in swallowing and respiration.
The doctor examined the patient’s pharynx for signs of infection.
6
Q
Define:
Esophagus
A
The muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) to the stomach, transporting food during swallowing.
The food travels down the esophagus before reaching the stomach.
7
Q
Define:
Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)
A
A ring of muscle at the junction of the esophagus and stomach that prevents the backflow of stomach contents.
The lower esophageal sphincter helps maintain a one-way flow of food into the stomach.
8
Q
Define:
Stomach
A
A hollow organ that holds food while it is mixed with stomach enzymes and acids for digestion.
The patient reported pain in the area of the stomach after eating.
9
Q
Define:
Gastric Juice
A
A digestive fluid secreted by the stomach lining, containing hydrochloric acid and enzymes.
Gastric juice helps break down proteins during digestion.
10
Q
Define:
Rugae
A
Folds in the lining of the stomach that allow it to expand and increase surface area for digestion.
The rugae of the stomach enable it to stretch when filled with food.
11
Q
Define:
Pyloric Sphincter
A
The muscle that controls the passage of partially digested food from the stomach to the small intestine.
The pyloric sphincter regulates the flow of chyme into the duodenum.
12
Q
Define:
Small Intestine
A
The long, coiled tube where most digestion and absorption of nutrients occurs, consisting of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.
Most nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine.
13
Q
Define:
Duodenum
A
The first section of the small intestine, where the majority of chemical digestion occurs.
Bile and pancreatic juices enter the duodenum to aid digestion.
14
Q
Define:
Jejunum
A
The middle section of the small intestine, involved in the absorption of nutrients and water.
The jejunum is responsible for absorbing most of the carbohydrates and proteins.
15
Q
Define:
Ileum
A
The final section of the small intestine, where the absorption of nutrients and bile salts occurs before reaching the large intestine.
The ileum connects to the cecum of the large intestine.
16
Q
Define:
Villi
A
Tiny, finger-like projections lining the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.
Villi help maximize nutrient absorption in the small intestine.
17
Q
Define:
Microvilli
A
Even smaller projections on the surface of villi in the small intestine that further increase surface area for absorption.
The microvilli enhance the absorptive capacity of the intestinal lining.
18
Q
Define:
Large Intestine
A
The part of the digestive system that absorbs water and electrolytes from indigestible food residues and compacts waste into feces.
The large intestine plays a crucial role in water absorption and waste formation.
19
Q
Define:
Cecum
A
The pouch at the beginning of the large intestine, which receives material from the ileum.
The cecum is the first part of the large intestine.
20
Q
Define:
Appendix
A
A small, tube-like structure attached to the cecum, whose function is not fully understood but may play a role in gut immunity.
The patient had their appendix removed due to appendicitis.
21
Q
Define:
Colon
A
The longest part of the large intestine, responsible for water and electrolyte absorption and the formation of feces.
The colon is divided into several sections, including the ascending and descending colon.
22
Q
Define:
Rectum
A
The final section of the large intestine that stores feces until they are expelled from the body.
The doctor examined the rectum for any abnormalities.
23
Q
Define:
Anus
A
The opening at the end of the digestive tract through which feces are expelled from the body.
The anus is surrounded by sphincter muscles that control bowel movements.
24
Q
Define:
Liver
A
A large organ that processes nutrients, detoxifies harmful substances, and produces bile for digestion.
The liver plays a vital role in metabolism and detoxification.
25
# Define:
Bile
A **digestive fluid** produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, essential for the digestion and absorption of fats.
## Footnote
*Bile* is released into the small intestine to help digest fats.
26
# Define:
Gallbladder
A **small organ** that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver until it is needed for digestion.
## Footnote
The *gallbladder* releases bile when fatty foods enter the small intestine.
27
# Define:
Pancreas
An **organ** that produces digestive enzymes and hormones, including insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels.
## Footnote
The *pancreas* secretes enzymes that help digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
28
# Define:
Peritoneum
A **serous membrane** lining the abdominal cavity and covering the abdominal organs, providing support and protection.
## Footnote
The *peritoneum* helps anchor the organs in place within the abdominal cavity.
29
# Define:
Mesentery
A **fold of tissue** that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall and contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics.
## Footnote
The *mesentery* supports the small intestine and carries blood vessels.
30
# Define:
Digestion
The process by which **food is broken down into smaller components** for absorption and use by the body.
## Footnote
*Digestion* begins in the mouth and continues in the stomach and intestines.
31
# Define:
Absorption
The process by which **nutrients from digested food are taken up into the bloodstream** from the digestive tract.
## Footnote
Nutrient *absorption* primarily occurs in the small intestine.
32
# Define:
Peristalsis
The **rhythmic contraction of muscles** in the digestive tract that moves food along the digestive system.
## Footnote
*Peristalsis* helps propel food from the esophagus to the stomach.
33
# Define:
Enzymes
**Biological catalysts** that speed up chemical reactions in the body, including those involved in digestion.
## Footnote
Digestive *enzymes* break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
34
# Define:
Amylase
An enzyme that catalyzes the **breakdown of starch into sugars**, starting the process of carbohydrate digestion.
## Footnote
*Amylase* is found in saliva and begins the digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth.
35
# Define:
Protease
An enzyme that **breaks down proteins into smaller peptides** or amino acids during digestion.
## Footnote
*Protease* enzymes are secreted by the stomach and pancreas.
36
# Define:
Lipase
An enzyme that catalyzes the **breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol**, facilitating fat digestion.
## Footnote
*Lipase* is produced by the pancreas and acts in the small intestine.
37
# Define:
Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)
A strong **acid** produced by the stomach that **aids in digestion** and helps kill harmful bacteria.
## Footnote
*Hydrochloric acid* is essential for creating an acidic environment in the stomach.
38
# Define:
Pepsin
An **enzyme** in the stomach that **breaks down proteins into smaller peptides**, functioning best in acidic conditions.
## Footnote
*Pepsin* is activated by hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
39
# Define:
Chyme
A **semi-liquid mixture** of partially digested food and digestive juices that moves from the stomach to the small intestine.
## Footnote
The *chyme* is formed in the stomach before entering the duodenum.
40
# Define:
Mucosa
The **innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract**, which secretes mucus and aids in absorption and protection.
## Footnote
The *mucosa* of the intestines is important for nutrient absorption.
41
# Define:
Submucosa
The **layer of connective tissue beneath the mucosa** that contains blood vessels, nerves, and glands.
## Footnote
The *submucosa* provides support and nourishment to the mucosa.
42
# Define:
Serosa
The **outermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract**, providing protection and structural support to the digestive organs.
## Footnote
The *serosa* helps anchor the intestines within the abdominal cavity.
43
# Define:
Motility
The **movement of the digestive tract** that facilitates the passage of food and waste through the system.
## Footnote
*Motility* is crucial for effective digestion and absorption of nutrients.
44
# Define:
Secretion
The process by which **substances**, such as enzymes and hormones, are **produced and released by glands in the digestive system**.
## Footnote
*Secretion* of digestive enzymes occurs in the stomach and pancreas.
45
# Define:
Defecation
The process of **expelling waste material (feces)** from the digestive tract through the anus.
## Footnote
*Defecation* is an important bodily function for eliminating waste.
46
# Define:
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
A chronic condition where **stomach acid flows back into the esophagus**, leading to symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation.
## Footnote
The patient was diagnosed with *gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)* after reporting frequent heartburn.
47
# Define:
peptic ulcer
A **sore** that develops on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus due to **erosion from stomach acid**.
## Footnote
The doctor confirmed that the pain was due to a *peptic ulcer* in the stomach.
48
# Define:
gastritis
**Inflammation of the stomach lining**, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
## Footnote
The patient was treated for *gastritis* after experiencing severe stomach discomfort.
49
# Define:
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
A **common disorder affecting the large intestine**, characterized by symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.
## Footnote
After several tests, the doctor diagnosed her with *irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)*.
50
# Define:
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
A term mainly used to describe two chronic conditions, **Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis**, that cause inflammation of the digestive tract.
## Footnote
He was admitted to the hospital for complications related to *inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)*.
51
# Define:
Crohn’s disease
A type of **inflammatory bowel disease** that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms like abdominal pain and severe diarrhea.
## Footnote
Her diagnosis of *Crohn’s disease* required ongoing management and treatment.
52
# Define:
ulcerative colitis
A **chronic inflammatory condition** that causes ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum, leading to symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.
## Footnote
The doctor explained that *ulcerative colitis* primarily affects the colon.
53
# Define:
constipation
A condition characterized by **infrequent bowel movements or difficult passage of stools**, often causing discomfort.
## Footnote
She was advised to increase her fiber intake to alleviate her *constipation*.
54
# Define:
diarrhea
A condition involving **frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements**, which can lead to dehydration if persistent.
## Footnote
The patient reported that he experienced *diarrhea* after eating contaminated food.
55
# Define:
diverticulosis
A condition characterized by the **presence of small pouches (diverticula)** that form in the walls of the colon, often without symptoms.
## Footnote
During a routine exam, she was found to have *diverticulosis* but no complications.
56
# Define:
diverticulitis
An **inflammation or infection of the diverticula** in the colon, which can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.
## Footnote
His severe abdominal pain was diagnosed as *diverticulitis*.
57
# Define:
hemorrhoids
**Swollen veins** in the **lower rectum and anus** that can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding during bowel movements.
## Footnote
She sought treatment for her painful *hemorrhoids*.
58
# Define:
celiac disease
An **autoimmune disorder** where **ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine**, causing symptoms like diarrhea and malabsorption.
## Footnote
After several tests, he was diagnosed with *celiac disease* and advised to follow a strict gluten-free diet.
59
# Define:
gallstones
**Solid particles** that form from **bile cholesterol and bilirubin in the gallbladder**, potentially causing pain and digestive issues.
## Footnote
She underwent surgery to remove her *gallstones* after experiencing severe abdominal pain.
60
# Define:
cholecystitis
**Inflammation of the gallbladder**, typically caused by a blockage from gallstones, leading to pain and nausea.
## Footnote
His symptoms were consistent with *cholecystitis*, prompting a cholecystectomy.
61
# Define:
pancreatitis
**Inflammation of the pancreas** that can be acute or chronic, causing abdominal pain, nausea, and digestive problems.
## Footnote
The doctor diagnosed her with *pancreatitis* after evaluating her symptoms.
62
# Define:
hepatitis
**Inflammation of the liver**, often caused by viral infections, alcohol use, or toxins, leading to liver dysfunction.
## Footnote
He was treated for *hepatitis* after testing positive for the virus.
63
# Define:
liver cirrhosis
A **late-stage scarring of the liver** caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, leading to liver failure.
## Footnote
Her chronic alcohol use led to *liver cirrhosis*, requiring extensive medical care.
64
# Define:
jaundice
A condition characterized by **yellowing of the skin and eyes** due to an accumulation of bilirubin, often indicating liver problems.
## Footnote
The patient presented with *jaundice*, prompting further liver function tests.
65
# Define:
lactose intolerance
The **inability to digest lactose**, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and diarrhea.
## Footnote
She realized she had *lactose intolerance* after consuming ice cream and feeling unwell.
66
# Define:
colorectal cancer
**Cancer** that begins in the **colon or rectum**, often presenting with symptoms like changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss.
## Footnote
Routine screening helped detect her *colorectal cancer* at an early stage.
67
# Define:
appendicitis
An **inflammation of the appendix**, often causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and fever, requiring surgical removal.
## Footnote
He was rushed to surgery for *appendicitis* after experiencing acute pain.
68
# Define:
anal fissure
A small **tear in the lining of the anus**, often causing pain and bleeding during bowel movements.
## Footnote
The patient was diagnosed with an *anal fissure* after reporting painful bowel movements.
69
# Define:
hernia
A condition where an **organ pushes through an opening** in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place, often requiring surgical repair.
## Footnote
The surgeon recommended surgery to correct her *hernia*.
70
# Define:
endoscopy
A medical procedure that uses an **endoscope to visualize the interior** of a hollow organ or cavity in the body.
## Footnote
The doctor scheduled an *endoscopy* to examine her gastrointestinal tract.
71
# Define:
gastroscopy
A type of endoscopy specifically used to examine the **upper gastrointestinal tract**, including the esophagus and stomach.
## Footnote
She underwent a *gastroscopy* to investigate her persistent stomach pain.
72
# Define:
colonoscopy
A procedure that allows the doctor to examine the **inner lining of the large intestine (colon)** using a flexible tube with a camera.
## Footnote
He scheduled a *colonoscopy* as part of his routine screening.
73
# Define:
sigmoidoscopy
An examination of the **sigmoid colon and rectum** using a flexible tube, typically used to investigate bowel symptoms.
## Footnote
The doctor performed a *sigmoidoscopy* to assess her lower gastrointestinal symptoms.
74
# Define:
capsule endoscopy
A procedure that involves swallowing a **small, pill-sized camera that takes pictures of the digestive tract** as it passes through.
## Footnote
She underwent *capsule endoscopy* to visualize areas of the small intestine that are difficult to reach.
75
# Define:
biopsy
A medical procedure that involves taking a **small sample of tissue for examination** to diagnose disease or condition.
## Footnote
The doctor recommended a *biopsy* to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
76
# Define:
barium swallow
A diagnostic test where a patient swallows a **barium solution to visualize the esophagus and stomach** using X-rays.
## Footnote
The *barium swallow* test showed no abnormalities in her esophagus.
77
# Define:
upper GI series
A series of X-rays of the **upper gastrointestinal tract**, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, often following a barium swallow.
## Footnote
The *upper GI series* revealed inflammation in her stomach lining.
78
# Define:
lower GI series (barium enema)
A diagnostic imaging test that uses barium to visualize the **lower gastrointestinal tract**, specifically the colon and rectum, via an enema.
## Footnote
She had a *lower GI series (barium enema)* to investigate her bowel symptoms.
79
# Define:
abdominal ultrasound
A non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to **create images of the organs in the abdomen**.
## Footnote
The *abdominal ultrasound* helped identify the source of her pain.
80
# Define:
ct scan (computed tomography)
An imaging method that uses X-rays to create **detailed cross-sectional images of the body**, often used for diagnosing diseases.
## Footnote
The doctor ordered a *CT scan (computed tomography)* to evaluate the extent of the injury.
81
# Define:
mri (magnetic resonance imaging)
A medical imaging technique that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create **detailed images of organs and tissues** inside the body.
## Footnote
She underwent an *MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)* to assess her brain.
82
# Define:
liver function tests (lfts)
A series of blood tests that measure various **enzymes, proteins, and substances produced by the liver** to assess its health and function.
## Footnote
The *liver function tests (LFTs)* indicated elevated enzyme levels, suggesting liver damage.
83
# Define:
stool test
A diagnostic test that analyzes a **sample of stool** to detect digestive disorders, infections, or other health issues.
## Footnote
The doctor recommended a *stool test* to check for parasites.
84
# Define:
fecal occult blood test (fobt)
A test used to check for **hidden (occult) blood in the stool**, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding or cancer.
## Footnote
He underwent a *fecal occult blood test (FOBT)* as part of his routine screening.
85
# Define:
h. pylori test
A diagnostic test used to detect the **presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria** in the stomach, which can cause ulcers and gastritis.
## Footnote
The *H. pylori test* confirmed the presence of the bacteria in her stomach.
86
# Define:
antacids
Over-the-counter medications that **neutralize stomach acid** to relieve heartburn and indigestion.
## Footnote
He took *antacids* to alleviate his acid reflux symptoms.
87
# Define:
proton pump inhibitors (ppis)
A class of medications that **reduce stomach acid production**, used to treat conditions like GERD and peptic ulcers.
## Footnote
The doctor prescribed *proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)* to manage her acid reflux.
88
# Define:
h2 blockers
Medications that **reduce stomach acid production** by blocking histamine, used to treat conditions like GERD and ulcers.
## Footnote
She was advised to take *H2 blockers* to control her heartburn.
89
# Define:
antibiotics
Medications used to **treat bacterial infections** by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
## Footnote
The doctor prescribed *antibiotics* to treat her bacterial infection.
90
# Define:
laxatives
Medications or substances that **promote bowel movements** to relieve constipation.
## Footnote
He took *laxatives* to help relieve his constipation.
91
# Define:
anti-diarrheal agents
Medications used to **reduce diarrhea** by slowing down bowel movements or increasing stool consistency.
## Footnote
She took *anti-diarrheal agents* to manage her symptoms during the trip.
92
# Define:
enemas
A procedure that involves **introducing liquid into the rectum** to induce bowel movements or deliver medication.
## Footnote
The doctor recommended *enemas* to relieve her constipation.
93
# Define:
parenteral nutrition
A method of **providing nutrition intravenously**, bypassing the digestive system, used for patients who cannot eat normally.
## Footnote
Due to his condition, he required *parenteral nutrition* for several weeks.
94
# Define:
nasogastric (ng) tube
A **thin tube inserted through the nose** into the stomach, used for feeding, medication administration, or draining stomach contents.
## Footnote
The patient had a *nasogastric (NG) tube* placed to provide nutrition.
95
# Define:
gastrostomy tube (g-tube)
A **tube surgically inserted through the abdominal wall** into the stomach for feeding patients who cannot consume food orally.
## Footnote
She received a *gastrostomy tube (G-tube)* for long-term nutritional support.
96
# Define:
cholecystectomy
**Surgical removal of the gallbladder**, often performed to treat gallstones or cholecystitis.
## Footnote
He underwent a *cholecystectomy* after suffering from recurrent gallbladder attacks.
97
# Define:
appendectomy
**Surgical removal of the appendix**, typically performed to treat appendicitis.
## Footnote
The doctor recommended an *appendectomy* to resolve her appendicitis.
98
# Define:
hernia repair
A surgical procedure to **correct a hernia** by returning the protruding tissue to its proper place and repairing the surrounding muscle.
## Footnote
He scheduled a *hernia repair* surgery after experiencing discomfort.
99
# Define:
bowel resection
**Surgical removal** of a **portion of the intestine**, often performed to treat conditions like cancer or severe inflammatory bowel disease.
## Footnote
The surgeon recommended a *bowel resection* due to the extensive damage from Crohn's disease.
100
# Define:
liver transplant
A **surgical procedure** to **replace a diseased liver** with a healthy liver from a donor, performed for end-stage liver disease.
## Footnote
After years of treatment, she finally received a *liver transplant*.
