hydromorphone
Indication
A narcotic pain medication used to relieve pain.
Side effects
Sedation, decreased senses, dizziness, seizures, euphoria, low blood pressure, decreased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, constipation, ¯ paralytic ileus, urine retention (cannot void), respiratory depression (slowed breathing), and addiction.
Interactions and precautions
1. Use with alcohol tricyclic antidepressants, sedatives, other narcotic pain medications, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, or other depressants can increase sedation.
2. Use with anticoagulants; (Warfarin) may increase anticoagulant effect.
Usual dose
Adults: oral, 2 mg every three to six hours as needed. Paediatrics: individualized by physician. Gastroenterologist
Physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of the digestive system or gastrointestinal tract are gastroenterologists. When they specialize to treat children in the same area, they are termed as pediatric gastroenterologist. They treat conditions such hepatitis, colon or rectal cancer, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. A gastroenterologist must complete four years of degree, four years of medical school, three years residency in internal medicines and later specialize in gastroenterology for a period of two to three years. Certification from a recognized board is necessary.
Role of gastroenterologist
Diagnose and offer medical treatment for any kind of disorder in the gastrointestinal tract.
Order for blood tests, x-rays, endoscope checks of the stomach called gastroscopy or for the large intestine called colonoscopy depending on the patient's illness.
Assist a surgeon in exactly locating the area of problem that needs treatment in the gastrointestinal section.
They follow up digestive system disorders that include esophagus, small and large intestine, stomach, pancreas and the liver. They also follow up on symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, ulcers etc following an operation.
Modern techniques and gastroenterologist
Use of ultra high frequency in endosonography gives better understanding of any lesions formed.
Measuring of myoelectric and contractile activity in the gastrointestinal tract, esophageal and anal manometry to understand constipation, nausea, abdominal pain etc better in any patient.
Electrogastrography and few other modern techniques have made it easier to understand the esophageal transit in patients easier.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a condition where there is infection in the tiny areas of weakness in the large intestine. Feces can get stuck in these weak pouches (diverticulum) and lead to inflammation and infection. This condition usually affects people over the age of 60 years. There is inflammation or infection in the diverticulum. Diverticula can form in different parts of the digestive tract, be it the esophagus, small intestine or stomach. It is associated with diets low in fiber. Diverticulitis is noticed more in persons from developed nations who partake refined, high fat food. Fiber in the diet prevents constipation and allows for easier passage of stools. This prevents formation of bulging diverticulum. If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to bleeding and blockage thereby causing serious illness.
Abdominal pain is a primary symptom of diverticulitis. There is tenderness around the left side of the abdomen and may be accompanied by fever, vomiting, chills and cramps. Often a person suffering from diverticulitis may not exhibit any symptoms. There may be difficulty in passing urine and frequent need to pass urine. Diverticulitis is usually diagnosed during routine checks for intestinal problems and colorectal cancer. CT scan and blood tests can aid in the diagnosis.
When a patient is suffering from diverticulitis, a low-fiber and clear liquid diet is usually recommended. A high fiber diet helps in keeping diverticulitis at bay. Fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains make for high fiber content. Drinking plenty of water will help prevent constipation. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat any inflammation and infection. Surgery is resorted to in cases where the diverticulum forms an obstruction. Changes in diet can go a long way in treating diverticulitis. Read more on diverticulitis diet to make modifications and add fiber to your meals.
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