Gastroenterology
Many patients who present with persistent, recurring heartburn or other symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) have tried lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies [1] and, possibly, taken prescription therapies that have proven to be unsatisfactory[2]
Definition and description:
GORD is a condition that develops when the reflux of stomach contents causes troublesome symptoms and/or complications [3]. This is the globally accepted Montreal Definition of GORD, which was developed by a Consensus Group of 44 experts from around the world, headed by a core Working Group [3]. They also concluded that the typical GORD syndrome can be diagnosed and managed successfully in primary care without the need for further investigation (if no alarm symptoms present), based on symptoms and their impact on patients’ lives.
Persistent GORD symptoms cause disruption in patients’ lives by interfering with eating, drinking, sleeping and other daily activities [4] , may reduce productivity at work [5] and arouse anxiety about their possible long-term effects [1].
Patients experience varying levels of disruption due to GORD affecting their lives. The Montreal Definition of GORD concluded that reflux symptoms become troublesome when they adversely affect a patient’s well-being.GORD is a potentially serious condition. Repeated oesophageal damage can lead to the development of Barrett’s oesophagus, and a risk of oesophageal adenocarcinoma [6].
Patients with persistent GORD want enduring symptom relief.
By using proton pump inhibitors one can achieve effective acid control[7–9], provide freedom from reflux symptoms[10,11], heal oesophagitis[12,13], maintain freedom from GORD and reduce the disruption and anxiety caused by GORD[14,15]
| Gastroenterology |
| References |
