Prevalence of Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease in Hemodialysis Versus Non-Hemodialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Rahim Yar Khan
GERD in Hemodialysis Versus Non-Hemodialysis Chronic Kidney Disease
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54393/pjhs.v7i10.3702Keywords:
Chronic Kidney Disease, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Hemodialysis, Prevalence, Risk FactorsAbstract
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is frequently reported among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those undergoing hemodialysis. GERD contributes to upper gastrointestinal morbidity, affecting quality of life and clinical outcomes. However, data from South Asian populations remain limited. Objectives:
To determine the prevalence of GERD symptoms among CKD patients and to identify clinical, biochemical, and lifestyle factors associated with GERD in both hemodialysis and non-hemodialysis groups in a Pakistani tertiary care setting. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out among 182 CKD patients, with 70 on hemodialysis and 112 not on hemodialysis, using a non-probability consecutive sampling approach. Sociodemographic, clinical, biochemical, and lifestyle details were gathered via structured questionnaires along with lab records. Results: GERD symptoms were reported in 38.5% of participants, with a higher prevalence in the hemodialysis group (47.1%) compared with non-hemodialysis patients (33.0%; χ² = 4.98, p=0.026). Heartburn and regurgitation occurring ≥2 times per week were significantly more frequent in hemodialysis patients. Proton pump inhibitor use was also more common in this group (p=0.014). Logistic regression showed that hemodialysis status (OR 1.78; 95% CI 1.03–3.07; p=0.038) and late-night eating (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.19–3.76; p=0.011) were independent predictors of GERD. Conclusions: GERD symptoms are common among CKD patients in Pakistan, particularly those undergoing hemodialysis. Hemodialysis treatment and modifiable lifestyle factors such as late-night eating are associated with increased GERD risk.
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