Upper Gastrointestinal Disorders Flashcards
What is indigestion also known as?
Dyspepsia
What is indigestion?
Discomfort arising from the upper gastro-intestinal tract
What is indigestion caused by?
Overeating Caffeine Alcohol Fatty, spicy and greasy foods Chocolate Carbonated beverages
What are the symptoms of indigestion?
Heartburn Bloating Anorexia Fullness Feeling sick (nausea)
Gastrointestinal disorders associated with dyspepsia
Non-ulcer dyspepsia or functional
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Peptic ulcer dyspepsia (PUD)
Cancer
What is un-investigated dyspepsia?
No further investigation by endoscopy for patients presenting with dyspepsia
What is investigated dyspepsia?
Further investigation needed for patients presenting with dyspepsia
What is non-ulcer dyspepsia (functional dyspepsia)?
A common problem wherein patients suffer from indigestion and other symptoms suggestive of an ulcer, but no abnormality is found on investigation.
What is gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)?
A common condition in primary care. The abnormal reflux of gastric contents into the oesophagus causing irritation and severe oesophagus damage.
What is peptic ulcer dyspepsia (PUD)?
A sore in the lining of the stomach or first part of the small intestine called the duodenum.
Referral criteria for dyspepsia
- Immediate referral (same day) – patients with dyspepsia and acute significant gastrointestinal bleeding regardless of age
- Urgent referral (within two weeks) – patients with dyspepsia plus ‘ALARM’ symptoms & 55+ year old with unexplained and persistent recent-onset of dyspepsia
What does ‘ALARM’ mean?
A= Anaemia L= Loss of weight (unintentional) A= Anorexia R= Recent onset of progressive symptoms M= Melaena (blood in stool) or upper GI bleeding
Dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing
Persistent vomiting
What age group does GORD affect?
Can affect all ages
How common is GORD?
Most common disorder of oesophagus
What gender does GORD affect?
Men and women equally affected
Is GORD chronic or acute?
Chronic. (persisting for a long time or constantly recurring) & relapsing (returning)
3 types of GORD?
- Erosive oesophagitis
- Non-erosive oesophagitis (ENRD)
- Barrett’s oesophagus
What is erosive oesophagitis?
Evidence of mucosal damage