GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

Definition

: Chronic backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing symptoms and complications.

Symptoms:

1. Heartburn : Burning sensation in the chest and throat

2. Regurgitation : Food and acid flow back up into the mouth

3. Dysphagia : Difficulty swallowing

4. Chest Pain : Pain in the chest, arm, or jaw

Treatment:

1. Lifestyle Changes : Weight loss, dietary modifications, avoiding trigger foods

2. Antacids : Neutralize stomach acid

3. Histamine-2 (H2) Blockers : Reduce acid production

4. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) : Block acid production

5. Surgery : Fundoplication, LINX Reflux Management System

PUD (Peptic Ulcer Disease)

Definition : Open sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine), caused by excessive acid production.

Symptoms:

1. Abdominal Pain : Burning, gnawing pain in the upper abdomen

2. Nausea and Vomiting : Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material

3. Bleeding : Blood in stool or black, tarry stools

4. Weight Loss : Loss of appetite, weight loss

Treatment:

1. Antibiotics : Eradicate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria

2. PPIs : Block acid production

3. H2 Blockers : Reduce acid production

4. Sucralfate : Protect the ulcer site

5. Surgery : Required in severe cases, such as perforation or bleeding

Dyspepsia

Definition : Chronic or recurrent upper abdominal symptoms, including pain, discomfort, and bloating.

Symptoms:

1. Abdominal Pain : Upper abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating

2. Nausea and Vomiting : Vomiting, regurgitation, or feeling queasy

3. Bloating and Gas : Feeling full, bloated, or gassy

4. Loss of Appetite : Decreased appetite, weight loss

Treatment:

1. Lifestyle Changes : Dietary modifications, stress management

2. Antacids : Neutralize stomach acid

3. H2 Blockers : Reduce acid production

4. PPIs : Block acid production

5. Prokinetics : Enhance gastric emptying

6. Antidepressants : Manage symptoms, improve quality of life

Common Causes and Risk Factors

1. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection : Bacterial infection that can cause PUD and dyspepsia

2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) : Can cause PUD and dyspepsia

3. Smoking : Increases risk of PUD and GERD

4. Obesity : Increases risk of GERD

5. Stress : Can exacerbate symptoms of APD

Diagnosis and Testing

1. Upper Endoscopy : Visual examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum

2. Barium Swallow : X-ray examination of the esophagus

3. Endoscopy with Biopsy : Tissue sampling for histological examination

4. Ambulatory Acid Probe Test : Measures acid reflux in the esophagus

5. Urea Breath Test : Detects H. pylori infection