PREVALENCE OF GERD AND ITS MANAGEMENT IN DIFFERENT HOSPITALS OF LAHORE

Maria Sarwar*, Aleena Zahra and Mariam Zaka (lecturer Pharm D)

ABSTRACT

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the most common chronic gastrointestinal disorders. It has been reported that GERD affects an estimated 19 million individuals in the US, and it can affect up to one-third of adults. It is one of the most commonly encountered conditions by both primary care physicians and gastroenterologists. To illustrate, a 2005 systematic review found the prevalence of GERD to be as high as 10%-20% in the Western world compared to a prevalence of less than 5% in Asia. Objectives: The aim of study was to evaluate the number of patients who seek proper medical treatment other than self- medications and home remedies and to ascertain whether treatment given was alleviating the patient’s symptoms, decreasing the recurrence of disease and preventing the development of further complications and its effect on quality of life. Method: An observational study was conducted by using convenient sampling technique during the period June 2017 to August 2017. Data was collected by selecting 50 patients from different private and public sector hospitals of Lahore. A structurally designed data collection form was used and filled during face to face interview with patients. Collected data was analyzed and represented in the form of percentage. Results: GERD was observed mostly in males (56%) than females (44%). In 64% of patients heart burn occurred mostly two or more times in a week, in 20% it interfered with daily activities, 10% had disturbance in sleep due to it and 6% patients had difficulty or pain in swallowing. 56% of patients treated themselves with home remedies, 30% used OTC products and 14% were those using medicines suggested by friends or family member. Conclusion: GERD is a chronic, relapsing disease. Patients have to be managed with either long-term medical treatment or surgery after a thorough analysis of the pros and cons of each modality.

Keywords: GERD, Prevalence, Investigations, Complications, Swallowing.