Chronic bowel disorders Flashcards
What is coeliac disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition assciated with chronic inflammation of small intestine so it unable to absorb nutrients
what causes coeliac disease?
an adverse reaction to gluten, a dietary protein found in cereals, wheat rye, barley
What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?
Diarrhoea, abdominal pain and bloating
higher risk of malabsorption of key nutrients (calcium and vit D)
How is coeliac disease treated ?
A lifelong gluten free diet
vitamin and mineral supplements following medical assessment
What condition are patients with coeliac disease at risk of ?
Osteoporosis due to lack of dietary vit d and calcium, assess bone mass via DEXA
What condition is likely to be present in patients with coeliac disease?
Type 1 diabetes mellitus
What are diverticula?
Saclike protrusions of mucosa through the muscular wall of the intestine
What is diverticulosis?
The presence of diverticula without symptoms
What is diverticular disease?
a condition where diverticula cause symptoms such as intermittent lower abdominal pain without inflammation and infection
what is diverticulitis?
a condition where diverticula become inflamed and infected, typically causing severe lower abdominal pain fever, general malaise change in bowel habits and occasionally rectal bleeding
what is the treatment for diverticulitis?
High fibre diet
infection/ immunocompromised - antibiotics : cefalexin, co-amoxiclav,ciprofloxacin,metronidazole,trimethoprim
bulk-forming drugs : diarrhea or constipation: isphagula husk, methylcellulose, wheat or oat bran
how do bulk-forming laxatives work?
Bulk-forming laxatives (containing soluble fibre) act by retaining fluid within the stool and increasing faecal mass, stimulating peristalsis; also have stool-softening properties. Tend to take effect within 2–3 days.
which conditions would laxatives not be prescribed in?
Intestinal obstruction or perforation.
Paralytic ileus.
Colonic atony or faecal impaction.
Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.- laxatives can also cause wind and stomach cramps, especially at the start of treatment.
Toxic megacolon. (can cause condition or exacerbate)
what are cautions for use of laxatives?
history of prolonged use
fluid and electrolyte disturbance
adverse effects of bulk-forming laxatives:
flatulence, bloating, diarrhea in overuse, electrolyte disturbance e.g. hypokalaemia
