Amir Khalil, Zaidi S B H.
Frequency of GERD in subjects with COPD: an experience from PNS Shifa.
Pak J Chest Med Jan ;14(4):21-6.

Background: Gastro esophageal (GE) reflux is a known potential trigger of asthma, and aggressive anti reflux therapy may improve asthma symptoms and pulmonary function in selected patients. The same has not been adequately studied in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Objectives: 1-To measure the frequency of gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presenting at the department of Pulmonology, PNS SHIFA. 2-To compare the frequency of occurrence of COPD exacerbations in subjects with and without GERD. Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and duration of study- This study was carried out between June-2006 to June-2007 at department of Pulmonology, PNS SHIFA, Karachi. Subjects and methods- A total of 63 subjects with a diagnosis of COPD, confirmed through pulmonary function tests, were selected from a target population of patients attending PNS SHIFA out patient Pulmonology department. These subjects were evaluated through GERD questionnaire for presence of GERD as per the criteria of Shimoyama et al; they were then followed up on two weekly basis for occurrence of COPD exacerbations. Main outcome measures-Presence of GERD,.COPD exacerbations Results: The frequency of occurrence of GERD in subjects with COPD was 39.7%. COPD exacerbations, as defined by steroid use, antibiotics prescriptions and hospital admissions was higher among COPD subjects with GERD in comparison with subjects who did not have GERD. Conclusion: The presence of GER symptoms appears to be associated with increased exacerbations of COPD.

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