Digestive Problems And Treatments Flashcards
Flatus(intestinal gas)
Normal process which may be caused by bacteria that acts on partially digested foods. (Foods that humans cannot fully digest, rich in fiber, starches, sugars[beans, dairy and some vegetables])
Treatment-beano can offer some relief.
Belching (burping)
Primarily caused by swallowed air, eating too fast, improperly fitted dentures, chewing gum.
Heartburn
Cause by hydrochloric acid in the esophagus.
Treatment- lose weight, lower fat in diet, sit up for 2 hours after eating, eat small frequent meals.
GERD
Painful persistent heartburn.
Causes of GERD
Cigarette smoking or alcohol use. Overweight, pregnancy, chocolate, citrus, spicy foods, large high fat meal.
Vomiting
Waves of peristalsis in reverse direction. Dehydration can occur. Dangerous in infants.
Diarrhea
Usually cause b an infection in the intestine
Treatment- plenty of fluid and electrolyte replacement if severe.
Constipation
Cause by inadequate hydration, inadequate fiber intake, ignoring urges to defecate, slow motility, medication, and or supplements, cod calcium/iron.
Treatment- eat plenty of dietary fiber, drink more fluids, regular physical activity.
Hemorrhoids
Swollen veins of rectum or anus
Treatment- eat plenty of fiber and fluid.
Ulcer
An erosion in underlying layers of cells in an area.
Treatment- small frequent meals, antibiotics, avoid caffeine/alcohol, avoids foods that agitate it, minimize aspirin use and refrain from smoking, sit up for 2 hours after eating., reduce excess weight.
Food allergy
Allergic reaction to a food or hypersensitivity to a food caused by a reaction of the immune system
Food intolerance
GI discomfort( gas, pain, diarrhea, constipation) caused by foods.
Celiac disease
Genetic disorder. Unable to digest food found in wheat barley or rye
Requires a diet lacking in the above foods.
Crohn’s disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (can affect anywhere between mouth and anus) possible cause is immune system reaction to a virus or bacteria.
Ulcerative colitis
Chronic disease of colon. Symptoms are similar to Crohn’s disease