GERD Flashcards
GERD
Common problem
Chronic manifestation of mucosal damage
Caused by reflux of gastric contents into lower esophagus
Not a disease, but a syndrome
Etiology and Patho
No one single cause
Results when:
-Defenses of lower esophagus are overwhelmed by reflux of gastric contents into esophagus
Reflux of HCl acid and pepsin secretions cause irritation and inflammation
Intestinal proteolytic enzymes and bile salts add to irritation
Predisposing factors
Hiatal hernia Incompetent lower esophageal sphincter (LES) -Antireflux barrier Decreased esophageal clearance Decreased gastric emptying
Incompetent LES
Primary factor in GERD
Results in decreased pressure in distal portion of esophagus
-Gastric contents move from stomach to esophagus
-can be due to certain drugs and foods
Risk factors
Obesity
Pregnant women
Cigarette and cigar smoking
Hiatal hernia
Heartburn (pyrosis)
Most common clinical manifestation
Burning, tight sensation felt beneath the lower sternum and spreading upward to throat or jaw
Felt intermittently
Dyspepsia
Pain or discomfort centered in upper abdomen
Regurgitation
Described as hot, bitter, or sour liquid coming into throat or mouth
Hypersalivation may also be reported
Most individuals have mild symptoms like
Heartburn after a meal
Occurs once a week
No evidence of mucosal damage
Healthcare provider should evalauate
Heartburn occurring more than once a week, rated as severe, or occurring at night and waking patient
Older adults w/ recent onset of heartburn
Heartburn occurs
Following ingestion of food or drugs that decrease LES pressure
Directly irritates esophageal mucosa
Potential respiratory symptoms
Wheezing
Coughing
Dyspnea
Nocturnal coughing w/ loss of sleep
Otolaryngologic symptoms include
Hoarseness
Sore throat
Lump in threat
Choking
Chest pain
Described as burning, squeezing, or radiating to back, neck, jaw, or arms
Can mimic angina
More common in older adults
Relieved w/ antacids
Esophagitis
*
*Related to direct local effects of gastric acid on esophageal mucosa
Inflammation of esophagus
Frequent complication
Repeated exposure: esophageal stricture (resulting in dysphagia)