GIT - Upper - Conditions

Question 1

Oesophagus

Answer 1

• connects oropharynx & stomach, posterior to trachea & larynx
• smooth muscle layers provide peristalsis, epithelial layer secretes mucus to protect surface & lubricate food
• passes through hiatus (opening) in the diaphragm to reach the stomach (where hiatus / hiatal hernias occur)

Question 2

Dysphagia

Answer 2

• difficulty swallowing
• can result from altered nerve function or narrowing of the oseophagus
• results in choking, coughing, sensation of food stuck in throat

Question 3

Oesophageal Diverticulum

Answer 3

• outpouching of the oesophageal wall caused by weakened muscle layer
• retains food
• S&S - gurgling, belching, coughing, foul-smelling breath
• treatment - surgery

Question 4

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)

Answer 4

• reflux - backward or return movement
• gastric contents backflow into oseophagus
• associated with a weakened or incompetent lower oesophageal sphincter that allows reflux to occur, oesophagus is exposed to acidic gastric fluid, leads to inflammation & hyperaemia

Question 5

GORD - Symptoms & Complications

Answer 5

• results in heart burn 30-60mins post meal, made worse by lying or bending and relieved by sitting upright
• S&S
  
  • occurs during night
  • antacids give rapid relief
  • belching & chest pain, epigastric or retrosternal pain, may radiate to throat, shoulder or back
  • may produce respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, chronic cough, hoarseness
• complications
  
  • hyperaemia, oedema & erosion of luminal surface
  • results in strictures or Barrett’s oesophagus (increased risk of cancer)
  • scar tissue, spasm & oedema cause narrowing of the oesophagus = dysphagia