Digestion

Friday, December 18, 2009

Reflection [7-13 dec]

this week i completed my new learning objectives. i was at my aunt's house from friday to sunday morning. next week, i have church camp and will most probably not do much.

causes and cures for digestive illnesses

causes:

Diarrhea- Diarrhea commonly results from gastroenteritis caused by viral infections, parasites or bacterial toxins. In sanitary living conditions where there is ample food and a supply of clean water, an otherwise healthy patient usually recovers from viral infections in a few days. However, for ill or malnourished individuals, diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration and can become life-threatening without treatment.

It can also be a symptom of more serious diseases, such as dysentery, cholera, or botulism, and can also be indicative of a chronic syndrome such as Crohn's disease or severe mushroom poisoning syndromes. Though appendicitis patients do not generally have violent diarrhea, it is a common symptom of a ruptured appendix. It is also an effect of severe radiation sickness.

constipation- the main causes of constipation include:

-Hardening of the feces

-Insufficient intake of dietary fiber

-Dehydration from any cause or inadequate fluid intake

-Medication, e.g., diuretics and those containing iron, calcium, aluminum.


Cures:

diarrhea- replacing lost fluid and salts is the only treatment needed. in very severe cases, using a drip is needed. Diet restriction may be used for 1-to-3 days. However, limiting milk to children has no effect on the duration of diarrhea. Medicines such lopermide (Imodium), bismuth subsalicylate (as found in Peto Bismol and Kaopectate) may be beneficial, however they may be contraindicated in certain situations. Prescribed medications sometimes contain pain-killers, such as morphine or codeine, to counter the cramps that can accompany diarrhea.

constipation- the main intervention is to increase the intake of fluids (preferably water) and dietary fiber. The latter may be achieved by consuming more vegetables and fruits and whole meal bread, and pulses such as baked beans and chick peas and by adding linseed to one's diet.

illnesses that affect the digestive system

There are many diseases and illnesses that affect the digestive system. Here are a few:
1. diarrhea- the small intestine cannot absorb water.
2. constipation- cannot get rid of bowels

More learning points

find out types of illnesses that affect the digestive system.
what causes them and the cures

Monday, December 7, 2009

reflection [30nov- 6 dec]

i just returned from korea on the 3rd of dec. i have not done much so i intend to find out more about illnesses related to the digestive system.

reflection [23-29 nov]

this week, i was in korea from 26 onwards so i did not do much. so far, i think that all the research i have done has helped me to understand more about the digestive system and how to lead a healthy life style. it has also taught me how to do reflections and research better.