Dyspepsia, GORD and Peptic Ulcer Disease Flashcards
What is dyspepsia
A persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort in upper abdomen
British Society of Gastroenterologists definition - range of symptoms arsing from upper GI tract including upper abdominal pain or discomfort, heartburn, gastric reflux, nausea or vomiting
What are the causes of dyspepsia
Causes include:
Lifestyle factors
Medication
Diseases
What is GORD and what are the symptoms and complications?
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Symptoms/complications resulting from reflux gastric contents into oesophagus, oral cavity or lung
Can cause chronic cough, laryngitis. There is a link to asthma
Can lead to complications such as stricture, Barrett’s oesophagus and oesophageal carcinoma
What causes GORD
Causes: Obesity Genetic Lifestyle Medication Age
What physiological phenomena causes gord
Lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation causing reflux of gastrix contents into oesophagus
There is also poor peristaltic movement, not enough saliva and delayed gastric emptying
What are peptic ulcers? What complication can they lead to
Open sores that develop on the inside lining of oesophagus, stomach or upper portion small intestine
Complications include upper GI bleed
What causes peptic ulcers
H Pylori (bacterial infection)
NSAIDS
Lifestyle factors
Genetic
What is the official definition of a peptic ulcer
‘ a breach in the continuity of the epithelial lining of more than 5mm in diameter, with associated inflammation’
Why do ulcers develop
Ulcers develop where there is an imbalance between the agents that protect the epithelium and those which attack
What are the symptoms of both dyspesia and GORD
Initial symptoms can include: Upper abdominal pain, tenderness, discomfort Heartburn/reflux Bloating Early satiety Nausea and vomiting
What are the generalised symptoms of gastric ulcer desease
Pain radiates to back
Mainly occurs at night
Aggravated by food
Lose weight
What are the specific symptoms of a duodenal ulcer
Epigastric pain
Anytime – empty stomach
Relieved by food/antacids
Gain weight
What are the ALARM warning signs for referral
A- Anaemia L- Loss of weight (unintentional) A- Anorexia R- Recurrent problems* M- Melaena(blood in stool)/ haematemesis S- Swallowing problems
*- Only age> 55 with unexplained & persistent recent onset dyspepsia
What does an assessment for the GI diseases include
Includes: Detailed history – medical and social *Medication review - many medicines can cause GI disturbances* NSAIDs Bisphosphonates Corticosteroids Calcium antagonists Nitrates Theophyllines Blood tests H Pylori testing – see later X-ray Endoscopy
What are the initial management steps
Identify potential causative medications and manage appropriately
Lifestyle Measures
Smoking cessation
Healthy eating
Avoid known precipitants that cause dyspepsia:
fatty, acidic or fried foods and chocolate
Reduction or exclusion of alcohol and caffeine
Avoid eating late in the evening
Weight reduction
Reduce stress
Raising the head of the bed (GORD) - reduces night time reflux
What are antacids
Medicines that neutralise acid - often used for dyspepsia
Available OTC – liquids and tablets
Simple, cheap, effective
Dose:
when required for symptoms
between meals and at bedtimes
four or more times daily
Liquids more effective than solid dosage forms, but less portable or convenient.
What are the side effects of antacids
Antacids usually contain aluminium or magnesium compounds:
Magnesium containing - laxative effect
Aluminium containing - constipating
Also look out for:
Calcium containing - possible rebound acid secretion/hypercalcaemia