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Gastroesophageal reflux in athletes
Katrina Parmelee-Peters1, James L Moeller
1Sports Medicine Associates, PLC, 3100 Cross Creek Parkway, Suite 200, Auburn Hills, MI 48326, USA.
Current Sports Medicine Reports
|February 26, 2004
Summary
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in athletes, worsening with exercise intensity and endurance sports. Symptoms may mimic other conditions but can be managed with lifestyle changes or medication.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is prevalent in athletes, with symptoms often exacerbated by exercise.
- GER symptoms can overlap with other gastrointestinal issues and cardiac conditions, complicating diagnosis.
- Athletes experiencing GER may also see an exacerbation of asthma symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the occurrence and characteristics of GER in athletes.
- To explore the proposed mechanisms behind GER during physical exertion.
- To discuss management strategies for GER in athletic populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GER in athletes.
- Analysis of exercise intensity, sport type, and timing (postprandial) related to GER.
- Examination of proposed pathophysiological mechanisms.
Main Results:
- GER incidence and severity correlate with exercise intensity and endurance sports.
- Postprandial exercise significantly worsens GER symptoms in athletes.
- GER symptoms can be mistaken for cardiac chest pain and may worsen asthma.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the factors influencing GER in athletes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
- Proposed mechanisms involve altered GI blood flow, motor function, neuroendocrine shifts, and mechanical stress.
- Interventions including lifestyle modifications and pharmacologic therapies can effectively manage GER symptoms that impact athletic performance.