GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE IN OLDER ADULTS: AN OVERVIEW

Course overview

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a motility disorder in which abnormal reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus causes mucosal damage, heartburn, and other clinical manifestations. Although the prevalence of GERD does not appear to increase with age, older adults with GERD tend to present with different symptoms and are more likely to develop GERD-related complications than younger patients. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of GERD in older adults, including its clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.