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Pain from acid reflux in the elderly can often present as chest pain and can be easily be confused with pain of cardiac origin. The typical heartburn is more common in the younger age group.

Acid reflux is the most likely cause of non cardiac chest pains in the elderly but at the time the patient is convinced and scared that it a sign of a heart attack. If heart disease and GERD occur together, they will make each other worse. Some drugs for heart disease will relax the lower esophageal sphincter and the drug is more likely continued because the benefits outweigh the side effects.

Dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing) at any age needs urgent investigations and treatment. In the elderly dyshagia can lead to malnutrition. Malnutrition makes a person weak and susceptible to infections and other illnesses that the body normally keep at bay.

Asthma and GERD are related. It is not different in the elderly. Acid reflux can trigger asthmatic symptoms and asthma drugs can trigger acid reflux symptoms.

Elderly GERD patients are more prone to chest infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. This happens commonly when refluxate aspirate into the respiratory system.

Damage of teeth can occur when acid reflux frequently ends up in the back of the throat and mouth. The acid will erode the teeth. This is more common in the ill, confined to bed, or those who spend more time lying down.

Hoarseness is more common in the elderly with acid reflux.

Some drugs can cause acid reflux. Others may be difficult to swallow. Liquid medication is best or drink a glass of water after swallowing tablets.

Dr. Phil Hariram.