Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs when reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus causes symptoms and/or complications. The prevalence of GERD in Western societies has been estimated at 30%, making it one of the most commonly encountered disorders in primary care. The spectrum of GERD includes typical symptoms of esophageal reflux (heartburn and/or regurgitation); esophageal injury (erosive esophagitis; stricture; Barrett esophagus; and, rarely, adenocarcinoma); and extraesophageal symptoms, such as laryngeal symptoms and chronic cough. Proper diagnosis and treatment of GERD includes symptom control, exclusion of other disorders, avoiding overuse of medications and invasive testing, and minimizing complications.
Use this to:
- Consult a gastroenterologist to discuss his or her approach to a patient who presents with symptoms consistent with GERD. When would they recommend referring patients with suspected GERD to a gastroenterologist? What actions or tests are helpful before referral?
- What is the appropriate prescription of pharmacologic therapy for GERD and the potential adverse effects of long-term pharmacologic therapy?
- Take the quiz that accompanies the article to assess your knowledge, and then review the correct answers.
In the Clinic is a feature of Annals of Internal Medicine which includes practical reviews about the management of common clinical conditions.
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