D5 - Digestive Health Flashcards
What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
General term for diseases causing inflammation of the intestines. Disrupts digestion and nutrient absorption. Includes Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis.
What is Crohn’s Disease?
Autoimmune disease causing inflammation of the intestines. Can affect any part of the digestive tract. Symptoms: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue. Treatment: Avoid trigger foods, immuno-suppressants, surgery if needed.
What is Ulcerative Colitis?
Autoimmune disease affecting only the colon (large intestine). Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, weight loss. Treatment: Similar to Crohn’s (diet, immuno-suppressants, surgery if needed).
What are Ulcers?
Erosion of the stomach’s protective lining. Can be caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Aggravated by: Smoking, caffeine, alcohol, stress. Symptoms: Pain, nausea, sometimes no symptoms.
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Diagnosis of exclusion (no clear cause). Symptoms: Constipation or diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain. Triggers: Stress, diet. Treatment: Laxatives, antidepressants, low FODMAP diet.
What are Gallstones?
Small, hard cholesterol-derived crystals in the gallbladder. Risk factors: Obesity, alcoholism, family history.
What is Hepatitis?
Inflammation of the liver. Three types: Hep A: Contaminated water; Hep B: Spread through sexual contact, highly contagious; Hep C: Spread through infected blood.
What is Cirrhosis?
Chronic liver disease where scar tissue replaces healthy tissue. Prevents proper liver function. Causes: Chronic alcoholism, Hepatitis C.
What is Anorexia Nervosa?
Intense fear of gaining weight, distorted self-image. BMI less than 85% of recommended. Severe long-term effects: Cardiac arrest, death.
What is Bulimia Nervosa?
Cycles of food restriction followed by binge eating. Purging behaviors (vomiting, laxatives, excessive exercise) to prevent weight gain.
What is Orthorexia?
Obsessive behavior around healthy eating. Can become harmful to physical and mental well-being. Related to anxiety, depression, OCD. Not yet a formal diagnosis.
