What are the 2 duration categories of pain? Define them.
- Acute (lasts for a short time)
2. Chronic (lasts beyond the time expected)
What are the location categories of pain? Define them.
- Visceral Pain (emanates from internal organs - described as “deep ache”)
- Somatic Pain (emanates from muscles/tissues - described as “throbbing, stabbing”
- Neuropathic Pain (emanates from NS)
Define “Nociception”
The transmission of information related to pain along the PNS and CNS, once a pain receptor has been activated
What is Prostaglandin?
A chemical mediator
What is responsible for producing prostaglandin?
The COX enzyme
Where is COX-1 found, and what are its functions?
- Located in stomach, intestines, kidneys and platelets
- Renal function, platelet aggregation and cytoprotection of the stomach
Where is COX-2 found, and what are its functions?
- Located in fewer tissues
- Pain mediator, inflammation and fever
List 3 potential adverse effects of NSAIDs
- Epigastric pain
- Nausea/Vomiting
- GI bleeding
Define “Analgesia”
The inability to feel pain
What are common upper GIT problems caused by?
Excessive activity of stomach acid, and the flow of this acid into the oesophagus
If gastric reflux is prolonged, what can it cause?
Gastro-Oesophageal-Reflux Disease (GORD)
Name the 3 drugs used to treat GORD
- Antacids
- H2 receptor antagonists
- Proton pump inhibitors
Name a common upper GIT problem
Peptic ulcers
Describe a peptic ulcer
- Occurs when thick layer of protective mucous that covers mucosal cells of stomach erode
