[06] Disorders of the Digestive System Flashcards
What are some common disorders of the digestive system?
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Ulcers
- Crohn’s Disease
- Gallstones
- Celiac Disease
What is GERD?
A chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus)
What are the symptoms of GERD?
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Difficulty swallowing
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
A common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation
What are the symptoms of IBS?
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel movements
- Excessive gas
- Food intolerance
What is an ulcer?
A sore that develops on the lining of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine
What are the symptoms of an ulcer?
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Weight loss
What is Crohn’s Disease?
A type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus
What are the symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
What are gallstones?
Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can block the flow of bile and cause pain
What are the symptoms of gallstones?
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Back pain between your shoulder blades
- Nausea and vomiting
What is Celiac Disease?
An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine
What are the symptoms of Celiac Disease?
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Bloating and gas
- Iron-deficiency anemia
What are the potential complications of untreated digestive disorders?
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Damage to the digestive tract
- Increased risk of certain cancers
How are digestive disorders diagnosed?
Through a combination of:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Imaging tests
- Endoscopic procedures
