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Gastric asthma: a clinical update for the general practitioner
Ravinder P S Makkar1, Gopal K Sachdev
1Department of Medical Assistance, International SOS, New Delhi, India. makkar_r@yahoo.com
Medgenmed : Medscape General Medicine
|November 6, 2003
Summary
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a common trigger for asthma, affecting up to 80% of patients. Primary care physicians should recognize GER as a potential cause of asthma for timely diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Gastroenterology
- Primary Care Medicine
Background:
- Asthma is an inflammatory airway disease with increased reactivity and airflow obstruction.
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a frequently overlooked trigger for asthma exacerbations.
- GER affects an estimated 34% to 80% of asthma patients, with up to 24% experiencing silent GER.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenesis and clinical features of gastric (reflux-triggered) asthma.
- To provide diagnostic clues for primary care physicians.
- To discuss diagnostic and management strategies relevant to general practitioners.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on GER as an asthma trigger.
- Analysis of diagnostic approaches and management relevant to primary care.
Main Results:
- GER is a significant and often unrecognized factor in asthma.
- Silent GER can occur in asthma patients without typical reflux symptoms.
- Primary care physicians play a crucial role in identifying GER-triggered asthma.
Conclusions:
- Recognizing GER as a potential asthma trigger is essential in primary care.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management of GER can improve asthma control.
- Further research into the primary care management of reflux-triggered asthma is warranted.