Gastroenterology · UKMLA & AKT
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test, covering how to recognise this condition. The full SA Note notes add investigations, management and complications, with practice questions on this topic.
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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