Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

🚨 Symptoms

Heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma exacerbation

🔍 Causes

Weak lower esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, certain foods (spicy, fatty, citrus)

💊 Treatment

Lifestyle modifications (weight loss, elevate head of bed, avoid trigger foods), antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, fundoplication surgery

📝 Nursing Care

Educate on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, positioning after meals; monitor for complications (Barrett's esophagus)

Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.