Gastrointestinal Flashcards
describe peptic ulcer disease
upper gastrointestinal disorders characterized by varying degrees of erosion of the gut wall.
Can be classified as Duodenal or Gastric
what is an ulcer
open sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine, much like mouth or skin ulcers.
signs and symptoms of peptic ulcer disease
gnawing, burning pain in the upper abdomen
occur several hours after the food leaves the stomach but while acid production is still high.
some experience pain, while others experience intense hunger or bloating.
some have BLACK STOOLS indicating that the ulcer is bleeding (very serious complication of ulcers)
diagnosis of a peptic ulcer disease
upper intestinal endoscopy that allows viewing by barium X-ray.
Ulcers are rarely malignant. biopsy specimen can be taken to determine
drug treatment for ulcers
antacids H2 blockers (H2R antagonists) Proton pump inhibitors cytoprotective agents H.Pylori treatment
Antacids
neutralize stomach acids 1. Na-bicarbonate (alka-seltzer) 2. Ca-carbonate (Tums) 3. Mg-hydroxide (milk of magnesia) 4. Aluminum hydroxide (amphojel) 5. Combination (Maalox, Mylanta) A/E - diarrhea or constipation, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia
histamine 2 (H2) blockers
block H2 receptors a. cimetidine (prescription) b. famotidine c. nizatidine d. ranitidine BCD - all over the counter A/E - cimetidine, not for older adults - causes dizziness
proton pump inhibitors
inhibits acid production parietal cells of stomach a. OMEprazole b. LANSOprazole c. ESOMEprazole d. RABEprazole e. PANTOprazole A/E - nausea, diarrhea, colic belching
miscellaneous anti-ulcer drugs
A. Sucralfate - coats ulcer from further acid attack. A/E drowsiness, constipation
B. Bismuth Subsalicylate (pepto-bismal) - coats esophagus and acts as barrier to gastric acids. Tetracycline & Metronidazole (eradicates H.Pylori)
C. Misoprostrol - secretes a gastric mucous barrier which prevent NSAID-induced peptic ulcers. A/E - diarrhea and CAN ABORT A FETUS!!!
treatment strategy for the eradication of helocobacter pylori
3-4 drugs for about 2 weeks
1st LINE - PPI, Clarithromycin, and Amoxicillin (penecillin). - Amoxicillin can be replaced with Metronidazole if allergic to penecillin
2nd LINE - PPI, Bismuth, Metronidazole & Tetracycline
3rd LINE - Empiric rescue therapy OR treatment tailored to individual antibiotic sensitivity.
What is GERD
Gastroesophageal Reflux disease
A condition in which stomach contents, including acid, back up into the esophagus, causing inflammation and damage to esophagus. Presents as heartburn! broken sphincter!!
Symptoms of GERD
COMMON: heartburn, regurgitation, dyspepsia, “sour stomach”
ATYPICAL symptoms - cough, hoarseness, sore throat, shortness of breath
ALARM symptoms - dysphagia, GI bleeding, weight loss, sensation of choking
name some foods that worsen GERD
alcohol carbonated beverages, citrus fruit drinks chocolate coffee peppermint spicy foods Tomato products
Name some medications that worsen GERD symptoms
Anticholinergics Calcium channel blocker's nicotine caffeine NSAIDS Theophylline
GERD drug treatment
stepwise treatment to empirc therapy with acid suppressants
1. Any symptoms - lifestyle modifications. avoid drugs that worsen sypmtoms
2. Empiric therapy for mild/moderate heartburn - antacids for two weeks with or w/o OTC H2RA
3. empiric therapy for typical symptoms of GERD - Standard H2RA dose x 6-12 weeks. moderate/extreme + PPI 4-8 weeks
4. for Pt’s who fail standard treatments above. High dose H2RA x 8-12 weeks or PPI for 8-12 weeks
NOTE: high dose required for BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS
common causes of constipation
not enough fiber in diet not enough liquids lack of exercise IBS abuse of laxatives ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement MEDICATIONS (Narcotics)
medications commonly associated with econdary constipation
antacids, anticholinergics, antidepressants, antihistamines
calcium channel blockers, diuretics, Iron
Narcotics, non steroidal anti-inflammatory, opiods