Digestive Disorders

GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, which is a condition characterized by painful and persistent heartburn. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Symptoms of GERD include a burning sensation in the chest, regurgitation of acid or food, and difficulty swallowing. Peptic ulcers, Crohn's Disease, and Celiac Disease are all different conditions that can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, but they do not specifically cause heartburn like GERD does. Therefore, GERD is the correct answer.

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm muscle into the chest cavity. This can cause stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. It is not related to IBD, peptic ulcers, or Crohn's disease, which are inflammatory conditions affecting the digestive system.

If a person has celiac disease, they should eliminate wheat, rye, and barley from their diet. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten, a protein found in these grains, triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. Therefore, avoiding these grains is essential for managing the symptoms and preventing further damage to the digestive system.

Heartburn is caused by hydrochloric acid in the esophagus. This occurs when the acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, leading to the discomfort and pain commonly associated with heartburn.

Swallowing too much air is not a cause of flatus because air that is swallowed is mostly absorbed into the bloodstream and does not reach the intestines where gas is produced. On the other hand, foods rich in fiber, starches, and sugar can cause flatus because they are not fully digested and broken down by enzymes, leading to fermentation by bacteria in the intestines. Bacteria that act on partially digested carbohydrates also contribute to the production of gas. Additionally, the fat substitute olestra and sugar alcohol can cause flatus as they are not easily absorbed by the body and can ferment in the intestines.

Peptic ulcers are areas of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that have been eroded by the combination of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and pepsin. HCl is a strong acid produced by the stomach to aid in digestion, while pepsin is an enzyme that breaks down proteins. When the protective lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine is damaged, HCl and pepsin can cause ulcers to form. These ulcers can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce acid production and promote healing.

Diarrhea refers to the frequent passage of loose, watery stools. It is usually caused by various factors such as infection, medication, and reactions to certain foods or substances. Infections can lead to diarrhea as the body tries to eliminate harmful bacteria or viruses through increased bowel movements. Certain medications can also disrupt the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in diarrhea. Additionally, some individuals may experience diarrhea as a stress response or as a symptom of underlying bowel disorders.

Belching or burping is primarily caused by a combination of factors including swallowing air, eating too fast, having improperly fitted dentures, and chewing gum. Swallowing air while eating or drinking can lead to the buildup of gas in the stomach, which is released through belching. Eating too quickly can also cause excessive air to be swallowed along with the food. Improperly fitted dentures can cause air to be trapped in the mouth, leading to increased belching. Chewing gum can also result in swallowing air, contributing to belching.

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that can cause both gastric and duodenal ulcers. It is a common cause of these types of ulcers. The bacterium infects the lining of the stomach and duodenum, leading to inflammation and damage to the protective layer of mucus. This allows stomach acid to come into contact with the lining, leading to the formation of ulcers. Therefore, the presence of Helicobacter pylori contributes to the development of both gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Celiac Disease is a genetic disorder where individuals are unable to absorb glutens, which are proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. When glutens are ingested, the immune system responds by damaging the lining of the small intestine, leading to poor nutrient absorption. This can result in symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. The correct answer is Celiac Disease.