Gastro-intestinal system Flashcards
(41 cards)
What is dyspepsia?
Dyspepsia is a gastro-intestinal pain caused excessive acid produced by the stomach which then irritates the stomach lining.
Where would you expect to experience pain due to dyspepsia? How does this differ to GORD?
With dyspepsia the pain tends to be located between the breastbone and the bellybutton whereas with GORD due to acid reflux irritating the lining in the oesophagus the pain is higher up in the chest.
What are some of the lifestyle choices that cause GORD or dyspepsia?
Drinking too much alcohol Smoking Stress Eating too many fatty foods Being overweight Eating spicy foods
Is there a link between pregnancy and GORD/dyspepsia?
Yes, being pregnant is a risk factor for developing the conditions.
What are the four OTC treatments for dyspepsia/GORD?
Antacids
Alginates
H2 antagonists
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Which treatments for dyspepsia work by acting on the acid within the stomach and which prevent its production?
Antacids and alginates work by acting on the acid/providing a physical barrier for the acid.
H2 antagonists and PPIs work on the mechanism of acid production.
What are OTC examples of Antacids and Alginates?
Antacids: Rennies
Alginates: Gaviscon
Which class of drugs is Ranitidine part of?
It is the only OTC H2 antagonist drug
What do PPIs all end with? Which ones are available OTC?
All end with -prazole
Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, Esomeprazole
What is the maximum amount of time antacids should be used for?
Up to 14 days, then need to contact the GP.
What other cautions should patients be aware of when taking antacids?
Can’t take any other medication for dyspepsia at the same time.
If they decide to take them at night, can’t have it with any food.
When is it recommended that Gaviscon is taken?
It is recommended to take it after mealtimes and before going to bed. There should be two hours in between.
Is ranitidine safe for pregnant/breast feeding women?
Yes it is but check with their Pharmacist/ Doctor first.
What are some of the common side effects of PPIs?
Abdominal pain
Headache
Nausea
Vomitting
What is some lifestyle advice you could give somebody who suffers with GORD/dyspepsia?
Lower fat diet Exercise Refer to weight loss clinics Refer to Smoking cessation Raising the head of the bed
What are the seven possible causes of constipation?
Lack of fibre in the diet Lack of fluid intake Pregnancy Cancer Lack of exercise Old age Medication
Which medications can cause constipation?
Diuretics
Antacids
Anti-depressants
Morphine
How does lack of exercise cause constipation?
Movement aids digestion through the large intestine, decreasing the amount of time it takes to pass through. The shorter amount of time it takes, the less water is absorbed and therefore the easier it is to pass waste.
How does pregnancy cause constipation?
During pregnancy there are changes in hormone levels. One of which is progesterone. An increase of progesterone levels in the body is muscle relaxation. When muscles are more relaxed including muscles in the digestive system this slows the process down which can cause constipation.
If a patient is constipated and is bleeding should you refer this to a Pharmacist?
Bright red specks infer piles has developed, not dangerous but you should refer to a Pharmacist.
How long should a patient suffer with constipation before you need to refer?
Constipation longer than a week requires referral.
What are some of the other red flag symptoms for constipation?
Losing weight unintentionally
Already tried an OTC product
Children must be referred
Other symptoms present (nausea, diarrhoea)
What are the four types of constipation relief OTC medication?
Bulk forming laxatives
Faecal softners
Osomotic laxatives
Stimulant laxatives
How do stimulant laxatives work?
They irritate the muscles lining the small intestine which helps them contract rhythmically and enabling waste to move through the digestive system.
