GI Signs & Symptoms - Pain

Question 1

Visceral pain (primary)

Answer 1

Origin of pain
Primarily in midline, not always only location of pain

Question 2

Referred pain

Answer 2

Pain perceived in an area other than the site of origin of pain

Question 3

Key questions to ask on PT exam

Answer 3

Safe to treat or emergency referral?
Problem consistent with musculoskeletal problem or not?
Does your PCP know about this?
Any recent medication changes?

Question 4

Symptoms associated with cancer of GI organs

Answer 4

Weight loss, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, early satiety (fullness feeling after eating small amount), GI bleeding

Question 5

Signs and symptoms of GI disease that warrant emergent referral

Answer 5

Constitutional symptoms list
Anorexia, arthralgia (joint pain), cachexia (wasting), chills, diaphoresis (profuse sweating), diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, fever, headache, malaise (energy/motivation loss), myalgia, nausea/vomiting, pallor (pale skin), night sweats, rash, weakness, weight loss

Question 6

What changes in vital signs would prompt an emergency referral?

Answer 6

Increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure

Question 7

What is the importance of knowing constitutional symptoms

Answer 7

Knowing when something else is going on
When to make an emergent referral/when it’s safe to treat

Question 8

Signs and symptoms of GI disease associated with exercise

Answer 8

Fecal urgency, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea/vomiting, heartburn

Question 9

Patient with weight loss, weakness, and rectal bleeding. What is your action

Answer 9

Ask for clarification on symptoms
Monitor vital signs
Initiate medical referral