GIT - Upper - Conditions Flashcards

1
Q

Oesophagus

A
  • connects oropharynx & stomach, posterior to trachea & larynx
  • smooth muscle layers provide peristalsis, epithelial layer secretes mucus to protect surface & lubricate food
  • passes through hiatus (opening) in the diaphragm to reach the stomach (where hiatus / hiatal hernias occur)
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2
Q

Dysphagia

A
  • difficulty swallowing
  • can result from altered nerve function or narrowing of the oseophagus
  • results in choking, coughing, sensation of food stuck in throat
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3
Q

Oesophageal Diverticulum

A
  • outpouching of the oesophageal wall caused by weakened muscle layer
  • retains food
  • S&S - gurgling, belching, coughing, foul-smelling breath
  • treatment - surgery
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4
Q

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)

A
  • reflux - backward or return movement
  • gastric contents backflow into oseophagus
  • associated with a weakened or incompetent lower oesophageal sphincter that allows reflux to occur, oesophagus is exposed to acidic gastric fluid, leads to inflammation & hyperaemia
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5
Q

GORD - Symptoms & Complications

A
  • results in heart burn 30-60mins post meal, made worse by lying or bending and relieved by sitting upright
  • S&S
    • occurs during night
    • antacids give rapid relief
    • belching & chest pain, epigastric or retrosternal pain, may radiate to throat, shoulder or back
    • may produce respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, chronic cough, hoarseness
  • complications
    • hyperaemia, oedema & erosion of luminal surface
    • results in strictures or Barrett’s oesophagus (increased risk of cancer)
    • scar tissue, spasm & oedema cause narrowing of the oesophagus = dysphagia
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