Alteration in digestion/bowel elemination

Pathophysiology

Study of the functional changes that occur in the body as a result of a disease.

Digestion

The process by which food is broken down into smaller components that can be absorbed by the body.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to the presence of gallstones.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas that can be acute or chronic, often caused by gallstones or alcohol consumption.

Cirrhosis

Scarring of the liver due to long-term liver damage, which can eventually lead to liver failure.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation.

Vitamin B12 Absorption

Vitamin B12 is primarily absorbed in the terminal ileum and requires intrinsic factor for absorption.

Risk Factors for Cholecystitis

Include being female, fertile, overweight, and high-fat diet.

Upper GI Tract

Consists of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach; responsible for the initial stages of digestion.

Lower GI Tract

Includes small intestine (jejunum and ileum), large intestine, rectum, and anus; responsible for absorption and waste elimination.

Amylase

An enzyme that helps in the breakdown of carbohydrates, produced in saliva and the pancreas.

Lipase

An enzyme that aids in the digestion of fats.

Protease

An enzyme that facilitates the breakdown of proteins.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, often associated with esophageal disorders.

Ascites

Accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often associated with liver disease.

Barrett’s Esophagus

A condition where the tissue lining the esophagus is replaced by a type of tissue similar to the lining of the intestine, often due to repeated exposure to stomach acid.

Enterocytes

Specialized cells in the intestinal lining that play a crucial role in nutrient absorption.

Hydration Needs

Patients with digestive disorders may have increased hydration needs due to vomiting or diarrhea.

Malabsorption

The inability to absorb nutrients from food effectively, which can lead to deficiencies.

Microbiome

The collection of microorganisms living in a particular environment, including the gastrointestinal tract, which plays a role in digestion and health.

IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)

Chronic inflammation of the GI tract, primarily including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Diverticulosis

The presence of diverticula (small pouches) in the wall of the colon, which can become inflamed.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, leading to damage in the small intestine.

Esophageal Sphincters

Muscular structures at the top (UES) and bottom (LES) of the esophagus that prevent backflow of substances.

Peristalsis

The coordinated, wave-like muscle contractions that move food along the digestive tract.

Epidemiological Risk Factors

Factors that influence the occurrence and distribution of diseases in populations.

Clinical Presentation

The observable signs and symptoms of a disease as presented by the patient.

Thrombocytopenia

A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood, often seen in liver disease.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

A decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver disease.