M101 History Taking of the Alimentary System Flashcards
What is another term for indigestion?
dyspepsia
What is the effect of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease on waterbrash?
can make the waterbrash either acidic or increased saliva
What topics of questions can be asked when taking a history of the alimentary system?
Presenting Symptoms Mouth Symptoms? Loss of appetite / weight loss? Heartburn? Dyspepsia, reflux? Abdominal pain? Dysphagia? Nausea / vomiting? Wind, flatulence, abdominal distension? Bowel habit, diarrhoea, constipation Change noticed by friends / family - weight, jaundice, pallor? Groin lumps / swellings? Systemic illness
What are the red flag symptoms for GI cancer?
general fatigue / anaemia symtoms (unexplained iron deficiency)
Abnormal mass
Loss of appetite / unexplained weight loss
dysphagia
abdominal pain
blood in vomit / stool
family history of bowel cancer
What are personal questions when taking a GI history?
Could you be pregnant? Could be an ectopic pregnancy
Family history - deaths
What does right iliac fossa pain suggest?
appendicitis
What could cause abdominal distension?
ascites
ovarian cancer
What is a feature of haematochezia?
a fresh bleed in the lower GI
What are the causes of haematochezia?
diverticulitis
haemorrhoids
colon cancer
What are the causes of melaena?
duodenal / gastric ulcer
stomach cancer
If the disease is systemic, what might cause a symptom of tiredness?
anaemia
GI blood loss + underlying cancer
What systemic conditions could present with Joint pains?
IBD, UC, Crohn’s
What medicines could cause abdominal symptoms?
laxatives
codeine
