The Prevalence of Gastro-oesophageal Reflux in Chronic Lung Disease

Gastric reflux into the oesophagus may further lung damage in respiratory disease. The proportion of adults with chronic lung disease and gastric reflux is unknown. Adults with this disease regularly complete physiotherapy but the contribution of physiotherapy to reflux is unknown. This study will measure gastric reflux in adults with chronic lung disease, using 24 hour acid monitoring. It is anticipated that approximately 50% of adults with chronic lung disease will have gastric reflux. After monitoring, the number of gastric reflux episodes will be calculated. The results will identify the extent of the gastric reflux problem in these patients and will enable appropriate medical treatment and modifications to physiotherapy, which may improve lung function and quality of life.