Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and hiatus hernia

Abstract

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common disorder with an increasing prevalence in the UK. The presence of a hiatus hernia is the strongest risk factor for developing GORD, although it is not essential. The most common symptoms experienced by patients with GORD are heartburn and acid regurgitation. The diagnosis of GORD is usually made from the clinical history. Endoscopy and ambulatory pH monitoring are adjunctive tests that can influence management decisions. The main goals of treatment are symptom control and the prevention of complications such as Barrett's oesophagus and peptic stricture. Treatment options include lifestyle interventions, proton pump inhibitors and, in selected patients, antireflux surgery.