TITLE:
The Gastroesophageal Disease and Its Association to Ear, Nose, Throat Complaints
AUTHORS:
Habib Merza, Hanan Abdulkhaleq
KEYWORDS:
Children, Ear, Nose, Throat, Gastroesophegeal Reflux Disease
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery,
Vol.10 No.5,
August
5,
2021
ABSTRACT: Objectives: In many articles, gastroesophageal reflux has been identified as a strong underlying factor in laryngeal and extra-laryngeal disorders. But the exact mechanism of these complications is still controversial. The present study was designed to investigate the association of gastroesophageal acid reflux to ear, nose and throat diseases in children. Materials and Methods: The present study is a descriptive cross-sectional study and its statistical population includes children with gastroesophageal reflux disease over a period of 18 months visited Salmaniya Medical Complex, Kingdom of Bahrain. The diagnosis of GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) was recorded based on symptoms, radiological and endoscopic findings and ESPGHAN guidelines. The ear, nose and throat were examined and problems recorded followed by initiation of medical treatment. After one and six months of follow up post treatment all clinical findings were recorded. Results: 26.4% of the children were under one year old. In 78% of children, a family history of GERD was reported to be negative. Cough was the most common clinical complaint. After one month of treatment, 15% of gastrointestinal symptoms and 40% of ENT symptoms completely improved. After six months of treatment 72% percentage of gastrointestinal symptoms and ENT symptoms completely improved. Conclusion: This study showed that gastroesophageal reflux disease should be considered, diagnosed and treated in all children with refractory ear, nose and throat symptoms.