Management of gastroesophageal reflux disease: the primary care strategy.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common problem in the community and in general practice. General practitioners and family physicians need to understand patients' reasons for consultation and also be aware of alarm symptoms suggestive of serious disease. A primary care management strategy for GERD is proposed, in which the place of endoscopic and other investigations is defined, the role of lifestyle modification discussed, and recommendations for longer-term therapy and management are made.