Gastrointestinal motility disorders during pregnancy
Article Abstract:
Motility disorders in the gastrointestinal tract are common during pregnancy. They appear to result from increasing levels of female sex hormones and not from the enlarging uterus. Pregnancy does not seem to affect secretion or absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Heartburn occurs in an estimated 30% to 50% of all pregnancies. Eating small frequent meals, raising the head of the bed and avoiding stooping and bending may alleviate heartburn. Nausea and vomiting commonly affect pregnant women. Changes in diet may be all the treatment needed for mild cases, but more severe cases may be helped with antiemetic drugs or vitamin B6. Pregnant women often experience constipation and bloating, but use of laxatives may cause harm to both the mother and fetus. Increasing dietary fiber or taking bulk agents should relieve constipation. Bulk agents should also be used instead of medication to treat diarrhea in pregnancy.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1993
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Dental erosion and acid reflux disease
Article Abstract:
Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease frequently exhibit the symptoms of dental erosion. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is characterized by heartburn, vomiting, and chest pain and may also include upper respiratory symptoms. Dental erosion is caused by the exposure of the teeth to acidic substances. In contrast, dental cavities are caused by the breakdown of sugars by bacteria. Ten of 12 patients (83%) studied with dental erosion tested in the high range for gastroesophageal reflux. Correspondingly, 11 of 20 (55%) patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease had symptoms of dental erosion. This indicates that dental erosion is a common occurrence in patients with reflux disease and that dental care should not be overlooked for these patients.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1995
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