Maxwell M Chait,
Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, USA
Title: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in the Older Patient
Biography
Biography: Maxwell M Chait,
Abstract
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common upper gastrointestinal disorder seen in the older patient. Older patients with GERD may have fewer symptoms. However, they can have more severe esophageal and extraesophageal complications that may be potentially life threatening than in younger individuals, such as erosive esophagitis, esophageal stricture, Barrett’s esophagus, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, atypical chest pain; ear, nose, and throat (ENT) manifestations such as globus sensation and laryngitis, dental problems; pulmonary problems such as chronic cough, asthma, and pulmonary aspiration. A more aggressive approach may often be warranted in the older patient, because of the higher incidence of severe complications. The evaluation and management of GERD are generally the same in both younger and older patients. However, there are specific issues of causation, evaluation and treatment that must be addressed when dealing with the older patient, such as cognitive impairment, comorbidities and medication side effects.