Lower GI Disorders Flashcards
Appendicitis Etiology
Appendix is OBSTRUCTED
Leads to INFLAMMATION
Appendicitis Complications
Gangrene
Abscess formation
Peritonitis
“GAP”
Key Points of Appendicitis
Classic Pain: RLQ in periumbilical area
Rebound Pain: Severe pain after release of palpating hand over the RLQ
Sudden Pain Relief: May indicate rupture (peritonitis)
Appendicitis Symptoms
Low grade fever
Nausea
Anorexia
“LAN”
Pain progression in Appendicitis
Begins as Dull, steady pain in periumbilical area
Progresses over 4-6 hours & localizes to RLQ
Appendicitis Diagnosis
- Clinical S/S
- Inc WBC
- Abd Sonogram
- Exploratory Lap
Peritonitis
Inflammation of the PERITONEUM
-serous membrane that lines abdominal cavity & covers visceral organs
Peritonitis: what happens in the peritoneum
- INFLAMMATION
- FLUID SHIFTS (third spacing) -can lead to hypovolemic shock
- DECREASED PERISTALSIS
- can lead to paralytic ileus and intestinal obstruction
Peritonitis Causes
Pancreatitis Perforated ulcer Ruptured Gallbladder Ruptured Spleen Ruptured Bladder Ruptured Appendix
Peritonitis Clinical Manifestations
- Usually sudden + SEVERE
- Abdominal Pain
- Tenderness
- Rigid “board-like” abdomen
- N/V
- Fever
- Elevated WBC
- Inc HR
- Dec BP
IBS
Chronic Condition: alterations in bowel pattern due to changes in intestinal motility
- Chronic + Frequent constipation (IBSC)
- Chronic + Frequent diarrhea (IBSD)
IBS Symptoms
VARY BY INDIVIDUAL
- Abd distension, fullness, flatus, and bloating
- Intermittent abdominal pain exacerbated by stress and RELIEVED BY DEFECATION
- Bowel Urgency
- Intolerance to certain foods (sorbitol, lactose, gluten)
- Non-bloody stool that may contain mucous
Psychosocial Stress and IBS
IBS is almost NEVER the result of primarily psychological causes
IBS can be exacerbated by stress
IBS can cause stress and psychological problems
IBS Cause
CAUSE: unknown but can be triggered by:
- Stress
- Food
- Hormone changes
- GI infections
- Menses
