GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD): A DIAGNOSTIC ALGORITHMS, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY MODELS, AND THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic, relapsing, and heterogeneous gastrointestinal disorder characterized by retrograde flow of gastric contents into the esophagus, leading to typical symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation) and/or mucosal and extra-esophageal complications. Its global prevalence is steadily increasing due to rising obesity rates, dietary pattern changes, sedentary lifestyle, aging populations, and increasing prevalence of hiatal hernia and metabolic syndrome. GERD represents a major burden on healthcare systems due to reduced quality of life, chronic medication use, and risk of complications such as erosive esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus. To provide a comprehensive, structured, evidence-based synthesis of GERD, including its pathophysiology, clinical phenotypes, diagnostic algorithms, therapeutic strategies, long-term management outcomes, and regionally adapted considerations with emphasis on resource-limited settings such as Uzbekistan (Andijan region).