Esophageal & Stomach disorders Flashcards
What are some causes of proximal dysphagia?
Neurologic (stroke). Aspiration pneumonia
What usually causes distal dysphagia?
obstruction (inflammation, tumor, achalasia)
What can distal dysphagia mimic?
ANGINA
Signs and symptoms of GERD:
heartburn, reflux, dysphagia, painful swallowing, chest pain (esp when lying down), coughing, asthma, wheezing, sore throat, hoarseness.
How is GERD diagnosed?
History, endoscopy, barium radiography, H. pylori
How is GERD treated?
Small frequent meals, meds (acid suppressing inhibitors), surgery
Which position allows for gastric juices to flow more easily?
RIGHT Side Lying. Avoid supine, especially after meals.
Barret’s Esophagus signs and symptoms:
dysphagia, esophagitis, ulceration, bleeding, and adenocarcinoma
Treatment for Barret’s esophagus:
control GERD, endoscopic ablation, proton pump inhibition to control acid secretion
What are Esophageal varices?
Abnormally, enlarged veins in the lower esophagus
How are esophageal varices treated?
Variceal hemorrhage stops on its own, prophylactic tx, stent to reduce pressure, liver transplant
What should be avoided when working with pts who have esophageal varices?
Avoid activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure
What is a hiatus?
opening in the diaphragm
What happens to the cardiac sphincter with hiatal hernias?
Becomes enlarged, stomach pushes up into esophagus
Etiology of hiatal hernias:
weakening of the diaphragm or enlargement
