The nurse is preparing information to be included in a community educational presentation regarding gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Question

Which information should be included? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply. 1. A substantial number of people self-medicate with OTC medications.
2. GERD is more prevalent in adults over the age of 50.
3. Vomiting is a common sign of the disease.
4. A recurring sore throat may be a symptom of the disease.
5. Control of the symptoms is dependent on a change of diet.

Answer 1

1,2,4,5
Rationale 1: It is believed that the number of people experiencing reflux may actually be much higher than reported, but because many H2-receptor blockers are available without a prescription, a large number of cases go unreported.
Rationale 2: The incidence of GERD increases after age 50, but it can occur at any age, and the prevalence is equal across gender, ethnic, and cultural groups.
Rationale 3: Gastroesophageal reflux is the backward flow of stomach contents (chyme) into the esophagus without associated vomiting.
Rationale 4: Atypical symptoms of GERD include asthma or a sore throat.
Rationale 5: Lifestyle modifications including diet are key in the treatment of GERD. Many patients may have total symptom relief through these efforts alone.