A 20-year-old man complains of loss of appetite and occasional lower sternal chest pain 30 to 60 minutes after meals. He claims symptoms began about 6 months ago. He has a history of asthma and states he has needed his inhaler more than usual. He does not know what makes his symptoms worse or better. An EGD suggests GERD.

1. How may factors be affecting his GERD?
2. What nutritional counseling should you provide?
3. He states that he doesn't want to take any medication. How can you best advise him?
4. What are the long-term complications of GERD?

Question

High School

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Answer :

ramprinces279 ramprinces279 · Answer 1 · 2023-10-17T07:36:14-04:00

The factors affecting his GERD may include dietary choices, smoking, and his asthma medication.
Nutritional counseling should focus on a low-fat diet, avoiding acidic and spicy foods, and consuming smaller, more frequent meals.
Advising lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications, weight management, and elevating the head of the bed, can help alleviate symptoms without medication.
Long-term complications of GERD may include esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

Factors influencing GERD in this case may include dietary habits (high-fat and acidic foods), smoking, and the use of asthma medications, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
Nutritional counseling should focus on dietary modifications, such as a low-fat diet, avoiding acidic and spicy foods, and consuming smaller, more frequent meals. These changes aim to reduce reflux symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications, including weight management and elevating the head of the bed, can be suggested to alleviate symptoms without resorting to medication.
Long-term complications of GERD may involve inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis), the development of Barrett's esophagus, and an increased risk of esophageal cancer.