Gastrointestinal Case Study

Henry, a 58 y/o male, recently reports waking up in the middle of the night with burning abdominal pain. Symptoms occur several nights a week with occasional discomfort in the middle of the afternoon. A bland diet or drinking milk do seem to help and spicy foods aggregate the symptoms.

PMH: non-contributory

SH: Works in a grocery store, divorced, non-smoker, drinks 1-2 beers/day

Allergies: none

Meds: 1 325mg ASA daily for cardiovascular prevention

ROS:

Constitutional: Decrease appetite and 5% weight loss; denies fever
ENT: Denies sore throat or drainage
Lungs: Occasional dry cough at night
Heart: Mid sternum chest burning intermittently
Abdomen: Epigastric burning and tenderness, denies constipation or diarrhea

Question answers should be based on evidence found in readings and from peer-reviewed literature. At least two sources must be used and cited in APA format for each question. Only one source can be a textbook. Resources should generally be within 5 years unless you are explaining the pathophysiology of a disease or providing pertinent background information

Discussion Questions:

1. Explain the pathophysiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease as compared to GERD and explain which one his symptoms most closely represent. Support with evidence.
2. Explain the body’s natural protection against peptic ulcers from a pathophysiology standpoint.
3. What diagnostic testing may be used to further evaluate the symptoms and what might this test tell the healthcare provider?