Use of GERDQ and QOLRAD questions in children with overlap GERD and FD as alternatives to a visit to a doctor

Abstract

Objectives and Study: Dyspeptic symptoms in children are quite common and are a frequent reason for referral to both the primary care physician (family doctor, pediatrician) and the gastroenterologist. One third of children with such symptoms have an overlap of GERD and functional dyspepsia (FD), which leads to frequent repeat visits. Objective: To assess the feasibility of using the GERDQ and QOLRAD questionnaires in children with overlap of GERD and FD for dynamic monitoring of symptoms, treatment effectiveness, and quality of life of patients in conditions of limited access to a doctor's visit. Methods: 54 children aged 7‐18 years with overlap of GERD and FD were under observation. The diagnosis was verified by means of a questionnaire (GERDQ and QOLRAD questionnaires) and the use of fibrogastroscopy, endoscopic pH‐metry. The results were recorded in the developed individual patient card and statistically processed. Results: The preliminary diagnosis established using the GERDQ questionnaire (adapted for school‐age children) in 90% of patients with overlap of GERD and FD was identical to the diagnosis established objectively and using upper endoscopy. During the treatment and after its completion during repeated questioning (GERDQ and QOLRAD questionnaires), the analysis of the patients' responses allowed to correctly objectify dyspeptic complaints by 100%, pain by 82%, psychoemotional sphere and general well‐being by 96% and overall quality of life by 100%. Conclusions: Scoring questionnaire responses allows us to objectify the dynamics of complaints and symptoms in patients with overlap of GERD and FD, the effectiveness of treatment, and the quality of life of children even in the absence of a direct visit to a doctor, which is especially helpful in wartime.