GI Flashcards
hard stool
straining
feeling that the stomach is not empty
nausea
stomach cramps
constipation
CAUSES
contents of large intestine move slowly
more water than normal is absorbed from the faecal matter
MANAGEMENT/TREATMENT
bulk-forming laxatives (fybogel)
osmotic laxatives
faecal softeners
high fibre foods
plenty of fluids
regular exercise
reduce alcohol intake
avoid holding back the urge to pass a bowel movement
loose stools
watery stools
can cause dehydration
fever
loss of appetite
Diarrhoea
CAUSES
lining of large intestine become inflamed
viral infection (acute diarrhoea)
bacterial infection (travellers diarrhoea)
stress and anxiety
overuse of laxatives
MANAGEMENT/TREATMENT
fluid replacement
rehydration therapy
loperamide
bismuth subsalicylate (bacterial diarrhoea)
light diet
plenty of water
reduce alcohol and caffeine
itching around the anus
soreness, redness, swelling
lump hanging outside the anus
Haemorrhoids
CAUSES
sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
straining
may be from constipation
pregnant?
MANAGEMENT/TREATMENT
astringent (anusol ointment)
cream, ointment, suppositories
paracetamol (pain relief)
emollients
laxatives (constipation)
increase fibre intake
hygiene
avoid straining
OTC pain relievers
increase fluid intake
avoid codeine based painkillers
feeling of fullness
heartburn
Dyspepsia (indigestion)
CAUSES
smoking
pregnancy
posture
heavy drinkers
overweight
lifestyle factors
psychological
MANAGEMENT/TREATMENT
alginates (Gaviscon)
antacids (magnesium salt)
H2 antagonist
ranitidine
H.pylori treatment
avoid trigger foods
hydration
weight management
physical activity
meal timing
stomach pain or cramps
bloating
change in bowel habits
flatulence
urgent need to go toilet
IBS
(Irritable bowel syndrome)
CAUSES
intestinal inflammation
dietary factors
infections
hormonal changes
family history
stress
MANAGEMENT/TREATMENT
antispasmodics (hyoscine butylbromide or peppermint oil)
bulk-forming laxatives (fybocalm)
loperamide
increase fibre intake
identify trigger foods (dairy)
limit caffeine and alcohol
probiotics
sweating/ cold sweats
increased saliva production
headaches
going pale
Nausea and vomiting
CAUSES
food poisoning
drug and chemical
pregnancy
movement
ear disorder
MANAGEMENT/TREATMENT
prochlorperazine
fresh air
ginger tea
smaller mealS
