Analysis of the otorhinolaryngological manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients customed at a reference unit in Imperatriz-MA, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease covers a wide spectrum of disorders related to the return of gastric contents to the esophagus. The presence of extraesophageal manifestations may be suspected in pa­tients with otorhinolaryngological manifestations, such as unexplained chronic cough and laryngopharyngeal symptoms. Objective: To analyze the clinical-epidemiological profile of otorhinolaryngological manifesta­tions in patients diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease in a reference unit in the south of Maranhão. Methodology: The study is configured as a field, descriptive, analytical and cross-sectional research carried out through the application of a questionnaire to patients treated at a reference clinic in otorhinolaryngology in Imperatriz-MA. The collection took place through the survey of clinical and epidemiological information of patients identified with reflux disease and admitted to the clinic based on the validated questionnaire and an adapted script. Results: 24 patients (72.7%) were more likely to have laryngopharyngeal reflux. The main symptom reported was heartburn/regurgitation in 28 patients (84.8%), followed by pharyngeal globus (78.8%). By correlating the BMI with the scores obtained in the questionnaire, a progression in the intensity of the symptoms was observed: excess secretion in the throat, irritating cough, sensation of a lump in the throat and heartburn. Conclusion: Faced with a large spectrum of described manifestations, the heterogeneity of disease symptoms was observed. Subtle correlations were observed in the 50-59 age group, smokers and with a BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m².