Esophageal Disorders GERD

Question 1

What is Odynophagia?

Answer 1

Pain on swallowing

Question 2

What is Dysphagia?

Answer 2

Symptom resulting from the failure to move a food bolus from the mouth to the stomach

Question 3

What is a cause of Dysphagia?

Answer 3

Schatzki Ring

Question 4

What is are some causes of Odynophagia?

Answer 4

• Reflux Esophagitis

- Cytolomegalovirus (or herpes) of esophagus

Question 5

What may cause burning upon swallowing?

Answer 5

Candida Esophagitis

Question 6

What is the cause of Esophageal Dysphagia that is related to solids and is intermittent?

Answer 6

Lower Esophageal Ring

Question 7

What is the cause of Esophageal Dysphagia that is related to solids and is Progressive?

Answer 7

Peptic stricture or Cancer (esp. if > 50 yrs) [mechanically obstructing if its solids only]

Question 8

What is the cause of Esophageal Dysphagia that is related to solids and/or liquids that is intermittent?

Answer 8

Diffuse Spasm, NEMD, Nutcracker

Question 9

What is the cause of Esophageal Dysphagia that is related to solids and/or liquids that is progressive?

Answer 9

Achalasia or Scleroderma

Question 10

What are the TWO things you should ask with difficulty swallowing?

Answer 10

Intermittent or Progressive?

Solids or Solids and/or Liquids?

Question 11

What Life-Style Modifications are Cornerstone of GERD therapy?

Answer 11

• Elevate head of bed while sleeping (blocks, wedge)
• No food 3 hours before bedtime
• Stop smoking
• Modify diet
• -> Decrease fat and volume
• -> Avoid peppermint, onions, juice, coffee, tomato
• OTC medications PRN (as needed)