Publications Library
Topic: GER, GERD
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Fact Sheet: Barrett's Esophagus
527By: W. Grant Thompson, MD, FRCPC; Ronnie Fass, MD
Norman Barrett was a pathologist. In 1950, he described an abnormality in the lining of the lower esophagus that bears his name (i.e., Barrett's esophagus). We now believe that it is due to severe, longstanding, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Significantly, most people with GERD have no such abnormality. Nevertheless, the presence of Barrett's esophagus is an important observation since those who have it are at greater than normal risk of developing cancer of the esophagus. A review of diagnosis, management, and treatment. Revised and updated 2012.
Topics: Esophageal Disorders, GER, GERD -
Fact Sheet: H2 Blockers - Indications, Effectiveness and Long-term Use
528By: W. Grant Thompson, MD, FRCPC
The H2 blockers (also called H2 antagonists) were the first effective drugs for peptic ulcer. In the 1980s, they were the backbone of treatment for ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Now, antibiotics cure non-NSAID ulcers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are better for GERD. Therefore, H2 antagonists face an uncertain future as prescription drugs. Nonetheless, they are comparatively cheap, effective, and very safe for heartburn relief. Lower dose preparations are available over-the-counter. Reviewed and updated 2009.
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Fact Sheet: Heartburn, Hiatal Hernia, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Adults and Children
530By: Information Adapted from the National Diseases Information Clearinghouse NIH
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach. The esophagus carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
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Fact Sheet: Long-term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitor Medication and GERD
531Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been widely used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) since 1989. These drugs have proven to be highly effective. However, a recently published research study suggests that taking proton pump inhibitors for prolonged periods may increase the risk of developing pneumonia. What does this mean for those who use the drugs?
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Fact Sheet: Unusual Symptoms and GERD
532Answers to the questions: "Can GERD cause oral symptoms, specifically changes in saliva, or damage to the teeth, tonsils, or uvula (the fleshy structure hanging from the center of the soft palate at the back of the mouth)? My allergist believes GERD may even be contributing to my chronic sinusitis. I have looked on several web sites but have not found answers. Any information would be appreciated." Reviewed 2009.
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Fact Sheet: Talking to Your Doctor About GERD
535By: International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders IFFGD
Tips on preparing for your doctor's appointment and questions to ask.
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Fact Sheet: Historical perspective on the long-term safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
536For decades, it has been known that stomach acid can cause heartburn when it refluxes back up in to the esophagus. Nearly all remedies that neutralize or suppress stomach acid relieve the symptoms of acid reflux. Millions of people have taken these medications for long periods with great benefit and seemingly few side effects. This article takes a look at several challenges to the safety of acid suppressing medications that have appeared in medical and popular literature.
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Fact Sheet: Another Complication of Reflux: Laryngeal Pharyngeal Reflux (LPR)
546Many patients with throat discomfort are surprised when they are told that they have laryngeal pharyngeal reflux (LPR). Gastric acid can cause significant inflammation when it falls on the vocal cords. If this happens repeatedly, a person can be left with a number of bothersome throat problems, such as hoarseness, frequent throat clearing, coughing, or the sensation that there is something stuck in their throat. Many patients with LPR do not have any of the typical GERD symptoms. This has lead to some controversies and misunderstandings about LPR.
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Fact Sheet: Barrett’s Esophagus and Diet
548Patients with Barrett’s esophagus are often confused about dietary recommendations. This Clinical Corner article outlines our current understanding of how certain foods may affect those who suffer from reflux, GERD, or Barrett's esophagus; and gives some general guidelines for eating patterns that may prevent worsening symptoms.
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Fact Sheet: Do I Need Another Endoscopy?
549This Clinical Corner article explains the current guidelines for how often an endoscopy should be performed in patients with GERD or Barrett's Esophagus.
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