The Gastro-Intestinal System
The gastro-intestinal system is an important part of the human body. It is through this system that we are able to absorb nutrients from the food that we eat. Through the process of digestion that occurs in this system, we are able to produce cellular energy (ATP) and carry out cellular activities. The main organs in this system are the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, liver (which secretes bile), gallbladder (which stores bile produced by the liver) , pancreas(which secretes enzymes such as insulin), small intestine, large intestine, appendix( which helps in the production of "good"bacteria in the digestive system), the rectum and the anus. There are other accessory organs of this system including the teeth uvula and tongue.
Information from this description was received from the 7th Edition Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology, written by Elaine N. Marieh
Information from this description was received from the 7th Edition Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology, written by Elaine N. Marieh
Diverticular Disease: the intestines begin to develop pockets along the digestive tract. food can get caught in them and cause pain. There are special diets to help treat it, but there is no was to prevent it.
Chron's Disease: This occurs when an inflammatory response occurs in the bowel and the body responds. Each time that it occurs, the intestines develop scar tissue. this disease can lead to constipation and more flareups. It is an inherited disease. Cirrhosis: This is caused by long-term abuse of alcohol and Tylenol abuse. The liver begins to die off in this disease and the abdomen begins to swell. This can lead to a number of other issues in the body. GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. It can erode the lining of the esophagus and cause ulcers and bleeding. Cholelithiasis: also known as gallstones, this occurs when deposits gather in the gallbladder and begin to block the exit of the gallbladder. If it is not treated, pressure can build up in the gallbladder as more and more stones form. The most common treatment is the removal of the gallbladder. |
Appendicitis: This is a condition where the appendix inflames and begins to fill with puss. It is more common in pediatric cases, but can happen to anyone at any age. It causes pain that starts at the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen. If left untreated, it can cause serious problems. ( http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/appendicitis/basics/definition/con-20023582)
Gastritis: This describes a group of infections that has the inflammation is the stomach in common. It is caused by an infection of the same bacteria that also cause stomach ulcers. It can occur suddenly or slowly over time. (http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastritis/basics/definition/con-20021032) Irritable Bowel Syndrome: This is a common disease that affects the large intestine. It causes abdominal pain, diarrhea and constipation. It does not lead to other major diseases like Chron's Disease and Colitis does. (http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/basics/definition/con-20024578) Whipple's Disease:This is a rare bacterial infection that mainly affects the small intestine. It can affect other areas of the body including the eyes, brain, and heart. If it is not treated, it can be fatal. (http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/whipple/index.aspx) Hepatitis B: This is the most common cause of acute liver disease in the US. It is a viral disease that cause inflammation of the liver. It is a contagious disease that is passed on via the blood or contact with the blood of infected individuals. (http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/hepb_ez/index.aspx) |
Banner recieved from: http://www.google.com/search?q=the+gastrointestinal+system&safe=active&es_sm=122&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=_dMQU4PsFoKTkQfCo4HoBQ&ved=0CAkQ_AUoAQ&biw=1280&bih=699&surl=1#q=gastrointestinal+system+banner&safe=active&surl=1&tbm=isch&facrc=_&imgrc=HsAqnEOxNSxDwM%253A%3BnZ5B5_u9sRmX3M%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fscience.pppst.com%252Fhumanbody%252Fbanner_digestive_system.gif%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fscience.pppst.com%252Fhumanbody%252Fhuman-digestive-system.html%3B709%3B297