Gastroenterology · UKMLA & AKT
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise gastro-oesophageal reflux disease — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.
Key high-yield points
- Heartburn - retrosternal burning, worse after meals, lying down, bending; relieved by antacids
- Acid regurgitation - effortless return of acidic fluid, sour/bitter taste
- Atypical/extraoesophageal symptoms (laryngopharyngeal reflux / 'silent reflux') - chronic cough, hoarseness, globus sensation, worsening asthma, dental erosions; may occur without heartburn; erythema on laryngoscopy
- Other red flags warranting urgent OGD: unintentional weight loss (≥55 yrs with dyspepsia), haematemesis/melaena, persistent vomiting (≥55 yrs), iron-deficiency anaemia with upper GI symptoms
Dysphagia is a RED FLAG - do NOT attribute it to uncomplicated GORD. New dysphagia at any age requires urgent OGD (2-week-wait referral). Progressive dysphagia (solids first, then liquids) + weight loss = exclude oesophageal cancer.
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