Efficacy of Non-pharmacological interventions in Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease
Abstract
Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease, also known as GERD, currently has a prevalence of 10-20% in the Western World with an upward trend increasing exponentially. In the United States, GERD is the most common diagnosis of all presenting gastrointestinal (GI) related complaints and accounts for about four percent of all visits in family practice. Pharmacological interventions generally include a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) for first-line treatment. PPI's have proven to be a staple in management of GERD, accounting for billions of dollars spent on this class of medication.
Even though PPI's are considered first-line pharmacological interventions, ideally, lifestyle modifications should be initially advised to decreased poly-pharmacy among all individuals. Lifestyle modifications have been observed to decrease or resolve symptoms without any adverse effects. Non-pharmacological interventions are appropriate when GERD symptoms are intermittent and/or mild.
This paper will summarize an actual case of GERD which was presented in the primary care clinic. The purpose of this literature review is to address the efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions which could be incorporated with transient episodes of GERD. Numerous lifestyle, diet and behavior modifications are recommended, but within this paper, will address the most efficient and productive changes which could be incorporated with most GERD patients.