Upper GI Dysfunctions Flashcards
GERD
reflux of gastric contents into lower esophagus
no single cause of the disease
incompetent Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) - gastric contents move from stomach to esophagus d/t decreased pressure in esophagus when supine, increased abdomen pressure
aggravated by foods, meds, nicotine
GERD: RF
- obesity
- cigarette/cigar smoking
- hiatal hernia (diaphragm becomes weekend and part of stomach is actually above diaphragm)
GERD: S/Sx
variable from person to person
- heartburn or pyrosis: most common sx (irritation of esophagus by gastric secretions, burning sensation, tightness of lower sternum radiating to throat or jaw)
- dyspepsia: pain or discomfort centered in upper abdomen area
- fullness, bloating
- N/V
- belching, regurgitation
- respiratory sx (wheezing, coughing, dyspnea)
- nocturnal coughing disrupting sleep
- throat irritation
- globus sensation
*GERD can mimic angina
GERD: Dx
Upper GI Endoscopy
-look for inflammation, scarring, and strictures
can do bx during endoscopy to look for Ca
GERD: Complications
esophagitis: inflammation of esophagus
- esophageal stricture is created with possible ulcers b/c of repeated irritation which causes scarring
barrett’s esophagus: precursor to esophageal Ca
- Sx: heartburn (GERD sx)
- monitor: every 2-3 years w/ endoscopy, bx, radiofrequency
respiratory complications: coughing, bronchospasms, laryngospasms, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia
dental: erosion of posterior teeth from acid coming up
GERD: Interventions
Lifestyle modifications:
- stop smoking
- limit alcohol
- HOB elevated (wedge pillow)
- weight reduction if pt is overweight
Nutritional modifications:
- stay away from trigger foods
- avoid caffeine
- limit seasoning
- avoid late evening meals, nocturnal snacking
- small frequent meals w/ lots of fluids inbetween
- decrease fat content
- don’t lay down after eating
GERD: Meds
antacids (tums): offer quick short-lived relief
- most effective if taken 1-3 hours after meals and at bedtime
- neutralizes HCl acid
H2 Receptor Blockers: block action of histamine on H2 blockers to decrease HCl secretion
- ranitidine (Zantac)
- famotidine (Pepcid)
Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI): decreases incidence of esophageal strictures or complications of chronic GERD, prevention of GERD by inhibiting proton pump secretion of HCl
-omeprazole (Prilosec)
sucralfate (Carafate): antiulcer, acts as a protective layer on the stomach
bethanechole (Urecholine): increase LES pressure, which promotes gastric emptying
GERD: Surgical Tx
laparoscopically
reserved for pt w/ complications
Hiatal Hernia
herniation of part of the stomach into the esophagus through an opening in the diaphragm
two types:
- sliding: most common
- paraesophageal or rolling: less common, more concerning
Hiatal Hernia: Etiology and Pathophysiology
weakened muscle in diaphragm and esophagogastric opening is structurally part of problem
increased intra-abdominal pressure (obesity, pregnancy, ascites, tumors, heavy lifting, etc)
Hiatal Hernia: Clinical Manifestations
similar to GERD
- heartburn (pyrosis)
- dyspepsia
- regurgitation
- respiratory symptoms
- chest pain
Hiatal Hernia: Complications
GERD esophagitis ulcers hemorrhage stenosis (narrowing of esophagus) strangulation aspiration
Hiatal Hernia: Dx
same as GERD
Barium swallow
Endoscopy
Hiatal Hernia: Intervention
conservative: reduce intraabdominal pressure (reduce weight, etc)
surgical: reduce hernia, optimize LES pressure, and prevent movement of gastroesophageal junction
- herniotomy
- herniorrhaphy
- fundoplication
surgery done laparoscopically
Gastritis
inflammation of gastric mucosa of the stomach - breakdown of normal gastric mucosa which protects stomach against auto-ingestion causing acid to diffuse back into the mucosa resulting in:
- tissue edema, destruction of capillaries
- loss of blood
- possible hemorrhage
one of most common problems
-can be acute or chronic