[Selected problems concerning harmful effects of smoking on the upper segment of the alimentary tract]

In the paper, on the basis of literature and of the authors own observations, the disorders resulting from smoking within the upper segment of the alimentary tract have been discussed. Tobacco has been identified as a factor substantially interfering in the motility of the upper segment of the alimentary tract and unfavourably influencing the gastric and duodenal mucosa. It explains its facilitating role in the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease and a slower healing of peptic ulcers and also their more frequent relapse in smokers with a chronic peptic ulcer disease.