Extra-esophageal complications of gastroesophageal reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux is precisely defined as physiologic reflux, symptomatic esophageal reflux (SGER), and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). GERD defines diseases related to the movement of gastric contents into the esophagus, hypopharynx, and lungs. The spectrum of disease known to be causally related to reflux is increasing now that the technology to prove these associations is available. Clinicians should be aware of the potential relationship between reflux and extra esophageal diseases.