Gastro-oespageal reflux

Question 1

What is gastro-oespohageal reflux?

Answer 1

Involuntary passage of gastric contents into oesophagus.

Question 2

What causes gastro-oespohageal reflux?

Answer 2

Inappropriate relaxation of lower oesophageal sphincter due to functional immaturity.

Question 3

What contributes to gastro-oespohageal reflux in children?

Answer 3

Fluid diet, horizontal posture and short intra-abdominal length of oesophagus.

Question 4

What is a common presentation of GORD?

Answer 4

Recurrent regurgitation/vomiting but put on weight and otherwise well.

Question 5

What are the complications of gastro-oespohageal reflux?

Answer 5

• Failure to thrive from severe vomiting
• Oesophagitis, leading to haematemesis, discomfort on feeding/heart burn, iron-deficiency anaemia.
• Recurrent pulmonary aspiration, leads to recurrent pneumonia, cough/wheeze apnoea in preterms.
• Dystonic neck posturing (Sandifer Syndrome)
• Apparent life-threatening events (ALTE)