Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Question 1

What is GERD?

Answer 1

Reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus

Question 2

Signs and Symptoms?

Answer 2

• Dysphagia
• Sour Taste in Mouth
• Hoarseness of Voice
• Atypical pain of the head and neck

Question 3

When does heartburn occur in patients with GERD? How long after a meal can heart burn occurs?

Answer 3

30 minutes AFTER eating and at night when lying down

Question 4

Complications associated with GERD?

Answer 4

• Aspiration pneumonia
• Asthma
• Esophagitis

Question 4

What side lying position is the Nocturnal Reflux triggered?

Answer 4

When in Right Side Lying

Question 5

Position to promote when exercising with persistent symptoms?

Answer 5

Modification of activity to upright position

Question 6

How many hours prior to sleep is eating promoted to decrease symptoms of GERD?

Answer 6

Eat meals 3-4 hours prior to sleep

Question 7

Positions to sleep in to avoid GERD?

Answer 7

• AVOID supine, as this straightens the esophagus
• Left Side Lying to Prevent Nocturnal Reflux

Question 8

Best time to exercise in relation to eating?

Answer 8

Exercise 2-3 hours after eating, or exercise before meals

Question 9

Pharmacological interventions

Answer 9

• Antacids (TUMS)
• H2 Receptor Blockers
• Proton Pump Inhibitors

Question 10

Types of Food to Avoid eating?

Answer 10

• Spicy food
• Fatty food
• Chocolate

Question 11

What maneuver is contraindicated in patients with GERD?

Answer 11

Valsalva Maneuver is Contraindicated