Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and hiatus hernia

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common disorder with an increasing prevalence in th UK. The presence of a hiatus hernia is the strongest risk factor for developing GORD, although not essential. The most common symptoms experienced by patients with GORD are heartburn and acid regurgitation. Diagnosis of GORD is usually made from the clinical history. Endoscopy and ambulatory pH monitoring are adjunctive tests that can influence management decisions. The main goals of treatment are symptom control and the prevention of complications such as Barrett’s oesophagus and peptic stricture.