1. Digestive Disorders

2. Appendicitis  Acute inflammation of the appendix  Results from an obstruction and an infection  If it ruptures, it causes peritonitis (a very serious condition)  Treated by an appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix)  Symptoms:  start with generalized abdominal pain  Pain later localizes to the LRQ  nausea & vomiting  mild fever  elevated white blood cell count

3. Cholecystitis  Inflammation of the gallbladder  Symptoms frequently occur after eating fatty food, and include indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and pain under the right rib cage  If a gallstone blocks the bile duct, the gallbladder can rupture and cause peritonitis  Treatment methods include a low-fat diet, lithotripsy (shockwaves to shatter gallstones), or a cholecystectomy

4. Cirrhosis  Chronic destruction of liver cells accompanied by the formation of fibrous connective and scar tissues  Causes include: hepatitis, bile duct disease, chemical toxins, and malnutrition associated with alcoholism  Symptoms vary, but often include: liver enlargement, and jaundice (yellow discoloration)  When the liver fails, hepatic coma and death may occur  Treatment is directed toward preventing further damage to the liver  Avoiding alcohol, proper nutrition, vitamin supplements, rest and appropriate exercise are encouraged  If too much of the liver is destroyed, a liver transplant may be performed

5. Constipation  Occurs when fecal matter remains in the colon too long, causing excessive reabsorption of water  The feces becomes too hard, dry, and difficult to eliminate  Causes include:  Chronic laxative use  Diet low in fiber  The condition is usually corrected by:  High-fiber diet  Adequate fluids  Exercise  Although laxatives are often used to stimulate defecation, frequent laxative use can be habit forming and may lead to constipation.

6. Diarrhea  Frequent, watery stools  Causes include:  Infection  Stress  Poor diet  An irritated colon  Toxic substances  Can be extremely dangerous in infants and small children due to excessive fluid loss  Treatment includes:  Eliminating the cause  Adequate fluid intake  Modifying the diet

7. Gastroenteritis  Inflammation of the mucus membrane that lines the stomach and intestinal tract  Causes include food poisoning, infection, and toxins  Symptoms include: abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea  Typical treatment includes rest and increased fluid intake  In severe cases, antibiotics and IV fluids may be used

8. Hemorrhoids  Painful, dilated or varicose veins of the rectum and/or anus  May be caused by:  Straining to defecate  Constipation,  Pressure during pregnancy  Insufficient fluid intake  Laxative abuse  Symptoms include:  Pain  Itching  Bleeding  Treatment methods include:  High-fiber diet  Increased fluid intake  Stool softeners  Hemorrhoidectomy (in severe cases)

9. Hepatitis  Viral inflammation of the liver  Symptoms include:  Fever  Lack of appetite  Nausea/vomiting  Dark-colored urine  Enlarged liver  Jaundice (yellow discoloration)  Treatment includes rest and a diet high in protein and low in fat  Types:  Type A  Most contagious  Least serious  Vaccine is available  Type B  More serious than type A  Vaccine is available  Type C  Most serious  No vaccine is available  Liver transplant may be necessary if liver is severely damaged

10. Hernia Hiatal Hernia  Stomach protrudes thru the diaphragm into the chest cavity thru the opening for the esophagus  Symptoms: heartburn, chest pain, difficultly swallowing  Treatment: bland diet, small frequent meals, staying upright after eating, surgical repair Inguinal Hernia  Small intestine protrudes thru the lower abdominal wall  If it can not be reduced (pushed back in place), a surgical repair is performed Occurs when an internal organ pushes through a weakened area or hole in the body wall

11. Pancreatitis  Inflammation of the pancreas  The enzymes of the pancreas begin to digest the pancreas itself  Can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption, blockage of pancreatic ducts by gallstones, or idiopathic  Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diaphoresis (excessive perspiration)  Treatment depends on the cause

12. Ulcer  An open sore in the lining of the digestive tract  In the stomach (gastric ulcers)  In the small intestine (duodenal ulcers)  The main cause is a bacterium that burrows into the stomach membranes, allowing stomach acids and digestive juices to create an ulcer  Symptoms include:  Burning pain  Indigestion  Blood in vomit or stool  Usual treatment includes:  Antacids  A bland diet  Decreased stress  Avoidance of irritants like alcohol, fried foods, caffeine, and tobacco