Studies have shown that GERD is highly prevalent in patients who are morbidly obese and that a high body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor for the development of this condition. The hypothesis that obesity increases esophageal acid exposure is supported by the documentation of a dose-response relationship between increased BMI and increased prevalence of GERD and its complications.
In addition, other risk factors associated with the development of GERD include the following:
Age ≥ 50 years
Nicotine or tobacco use
Alcohol consumption
Connective tissue disorders
Pregnancy
Postprandial supination
In addition, certain drugs have been associated with the development of GERD, including the following:
Albuterol
Anticholinergics
Antidepressants
Aspirin
Benzodiazepines
Calcium-channel blockers
Glucagon
Nitroglycerin
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Read more on the etiology of GERD.
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Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: B.S. Anand. Fast Five Quiz: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - Medscape - Jul 29, 2021.
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