|
"Gastro-esophageal
reflux disease characterized by heartburn and regurgitation is increasing
commonly in Pakistani population. This is a direct reflection of
sedentary life style coupled with consumption of heavy spicy oily
food, pizzas, burgers and unlimited food eating in ceremonies. All
these may result in severe symptomatic reflux disease compromising
the quality of life and may even cause cancer," said Dr. Shahab
Abid, Associate Professor and Consultant Gastroenterologist at Aga
Khan University Hospital (AKUH). He was giving presentation on Gastro-esophageal
reflux disease a common disease with potentially serious outcomes
entitled "Heartburn and Reflux are Potentially Dangerous" at 'Signs,
Symptoms and Care', a monthly health awareness programme on March
26, 2004 in Hyderabad.
 |
| Dr.
Shahab Abid, Associate Professor and Consultant Gastroenterologist
at Aga Khan University Hospital giving presentation on Gastro-esophageal
reflux disease a common disease with potentially serious outcomes
at 'Signs, Symptoms and Care', a monthly health awareness programme
on March 26, 2004 in Hyderabad. |
Reviewing the various manifestations
of reflux disease that are easily preventable, Dr. Abid listed chest pain, adult
onset asthma, dental caries among the common features beside heartburn and regurgitation.
Reflux disease can also cause esophageal and throat cancer manifested as difficulty
in swallowing and hoarseness of voice.
Dr. Abid who is among a
handful of trained infectious disease consultants in the country,
recommended several measures for reducing the burden of reflux disease
in Pakistani population. Avoiding oily and spicy food, abstinence
from smoking, coffee, chocolate carbonated drinks and chewing gum,
regular exercise and a watch on weight will help greatly in reducing
the symptoms of reflux.
 |
| Audience
at the presentation "Heartburn and Reflux are Potentially
Dangerous" at 'Signs, Symptoms and Care', a monthly health
awareness programme on March 26, 2004 in Hyderabad. |
Diagnosis of reflux disease
can be made easily on clinical grounds. However in certain situations sophisticated
tests like barium swallow, endoscopy, 24hrs pH monitoring and manometry are
used. These tests are useful for evaluation of patient's symptoms and extent
of damage to the food pipe and throat caused by reflux. He practically demonstrated
the usefulness of pH monitoring system for the diagnosis of reflux symptoms
and in the treatment.
Dr. Abid also showed endoscopic
pictures demonstrating the transformation of inner lining of food pipe from
normal appearance to ulceration leading to bleeding and cancer.
Dr. Abid laid great stress
on the life style changes, avoiding food causing reflux symptoms and not to
go to bed for at least two hours after taking meals, especially dinner. He also
pointed out that in majority of patients, life style changes along with elevating
the head end of the bed and the use of simple antacid are sufficient to control
the symptoms. However, in some patients acid lowering and motility agents are
used for the treatment of reflux. Dr. Abid also explained the mechanism of action,
safety profile and efficacy of these agents for the treatment of reflux disease.
Aga Khan University Hospital
provides high quality services to all segments of the population. Over 70% of
the patients come from low to middle income areas. Since the inception of the
Hospital's Patient Welfare Programme in 1986, Rs. 0.9 billion has been spent
benefiting over 175,000 needy patients. In addition, 'The Patients Behbud Society
for AKUH' receives zakat contributions and disburses to the 'mustahaqeen'.
|
