DigestionDigestion Quick Notes

Vocabulary Gingivitis-inflammation of the gingiva (gums) Caries- tooth decay (cavity) Periodontitis- inflammation of the periodontal membrane or periodontal ligament Ascites-abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal space

Large intestine-colon Emesis-vomiting Flatulence-gas Hepatitis-inflammation of the liver Gastritis-inflammation of the stomach Deglutition-swallowing

Colitis-any inflammatory condition of the large intestine Diverticulitis-inflammation of abnormal outpouchings in the large intestine Cirrhosis-degeneration of liver tissue; normal liver tissue becomes fatty and fibrous Mastication-chewing

Hiatal Hernia Bulging out (hernia) of the stomach through the opening (hiatus) of the diaphragm through which the esophagus normally passes Bottom of esophagus may be abnormally stretched

Cardiac sphincter may be dilated Backflow, or reflux, would more likely occur when bending or reclining because gravity would pull the contents of the stomach toward the esophagus Barium swallow-upper GI study

Interesting Facts The liver performs over 500 functions and produces over 1000 enzymes to handle the chemical conversions necessary for survival. The human stomach lining replaces itself every 3 days.