ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines a case scenario on gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) followed by a highly detailed explanation of the condition and its management, presenting the symptoms in a way that are likely to be encountered in general practice. GERD refers to the involuntary reflux of stomach contents into the oesophagus, causing irritation and damage. Whereas an adult may complain of heartburn, chest pain or burning, bloating, nausea and an acidic taste in the mouth, the presentation in children and infants is less likely to be so obvious. GERD has been linked with asthma, bronchitis and pneumonia. Sandifer’s syndrome is a rare but interesting presentation of GERD. The child presents with spastic torticollis and dystonic movements thought to be due to acid reflux. A prokinetic agent, such as domperidone, used in combination with an H2 -receptor antagonist, such as ranitidine, is common practice in the pharmacological management of GERD in children.
