Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A General Overview

Abstract

Description Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) varies in presentation and the patient's symptoms of regurgitation in the throat or epigastric pain do not necessarily correlate with the severity of their disease. This general overview of GERD will include information on guidelines and diagnostic testing; lifestyle, medical and surgical management; and GERD in special populations. The pathophysiology of GERD is multifactorial, and a step-wise approach will assist physicians in making the diagnosis as GERD has a significant financial burden to the U.S. healthcare system.