Role of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in exacerbations of COPD

Ivan E. Rascon-Aguilar, Mark Pamer, Peter Wludyka, James Cury, David Coultas, Louis R. Lambiase, N. Stanley Nahman, Kenneth J. Vega

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

143 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background and aims: The impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) on exacerbations of COPD has never been evaluated. The aims of this investigation were to determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms in COPD patients and the effect of GER on the rate of exacerbations of COPD per year. Methods: A questionnaire-based, cross sectional survey was performed. Subjects were recruited from the outpatient pulmonary clinics at the University of Florida Health Science Center/Jacksonville. Included patients had an established diagnosis of COPD. Exclusion criteria were respiratory disorders other than COPD, known esophageal disease, active peptic ulcer disease, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, mastocytosis, scleroderma, and current alcohol abuse. Those meeting criteria and agreeing to participate were asked to complete the Mayo Clinic GERD questionnaire by either personal/telephone interview. Clinically significant reflux was defined as heartburn and/or acid regurgitation weekly. Other outcome measures noted were frequency and type of COPD exacerbations. Statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher exact test for categorical data and the independent t test for interval data. Results: Eighty-six patients were enrolled and interviewed (mean age, 67.5 years). Male patients accounted for 55% of the study group. Overall, 37% of patients reported GER symptoms. The mean FEV1 percentage of predicted was similar in those with or without GER. The rate of exacerbations of COPD was twice as high in patients with GER symptoms compared to those without GER symptoms (3.2/yr vs 1.6/yr, p = 0.02). Conclusions: The presence of GER symptoms appears to be associated with increased exacerbations of COPD.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1096-1101
Number of pages6
JournalCHEST
Volume130
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2006
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • COPD
  • Exacerbations
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
  • Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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