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Gastroesophageal reflux disease and its consequences
1Department of Ambulatory Care, Edward Hines, Jr, Hospital, Department of Veterans Affairs, Illinois 60141.
Journal of the Association for Academic Minority Physicians : the Official Publication of the Association for Academic Minority Physicians
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) can damage the esophagus and affect the lungs, particularly in asthmatics. Effective acid suppression may improve GER-associated pulmonary conditions, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
- Digestive Diseases
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) involves the orad movement of gastric or duodenal contents into the esophagus.
- GER can cause esophageal damage, including erosions, ulcerations, strictures, and Barrett's esophagus.
- GER can also affect structures from the pharynx to the lungs, with a notable association with pulmonary diseases like asthma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the factors contributing to GER and its impact on esophageal and pulmonary conditions.
- To evaluate the efficacy of treatments for GER and their potential to improve associated pulmonary issues.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological and clinical data linking GER to pulmonary disease.
- Analysis of ambulatory pH testing, endoscopy, and symptom presence in asthmatic patients.
- Evaluation of studies using antireflux agents (H2-receptor antagonists, omeprazole) and surgical correction.
Main Results:
- Most asthmatic patients exhibit evidence of GER, regardless of bronchodilator use.
- Antireflux agents provide symptom relief and healing of esophagitis in a significant number of patients.
- Preliminary data suggest surgical correction may improve pulmonary status, but further trials are required.
Conclusions:
- GER is a significant factor in esophageal and pulmonary diseases, especially asthma.
- Effective gastric acid suppression shows promise for treating GER-associated pulmonary conditions.
- Controlled clinical trials are essential to confirm the benefits of acid suppression on pulmonary status in GER patients.