Module 5 Guided Questions Lesson 1: Primary Gastroenterology Issues

Lesson 1: Primary Gastroenterology Issues What are the common GI problems in children and adults encountered by the primary care provider? How are these common GI problems diagnosed and treated? ● Constipation o The alteration in frequency, consistency, or ease of passage of stool o More than 3 days without a stool (Normal is daily or QOD) o Painful stools o Blood streaked stools o Organic Causes  Failure to pass meconium in 24-36 hours: Hirsch sprung disease, hypothyroidism, meconium plug, meconium ileus  Intestinal atresia, strictures, tumors  Chronic lead poisoning  Hypercalcemia o Inorganic causes  Diet  Transient illness  Travel  Emotional factors  Stool withholding during toilet training  History of painful stooling  Side effects of many medications such as iron o Infants  Rare  Ok to have infrequent stools o Infants/Toddlers  Occurs with transitions  TX: Add fruits & veggies to diet; small amount of juice (apple or prune). > 1 year old may need to limit milk o Early Childhood  Stool withholding  Poor diet  TX: Positive reinforcement. Fruits & veggies; fiber (no bananas). ↑ water; ↓ dairy o School-Age Child  First time event