The Role of Endothelial Dysfunction in the Mechanism of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Development in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease.

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are among the most common diseases worldwide, which in a considerable percentage of cases occur together, thus complicating symptoms, posing problems for timely diagnosis and hindering development of a comprehensive treatment regimen for both diseases. Research has shown that endothelial dysfunction is one of the major pathophysiological mechanisms in the development of IHD. Endothelial dysfunction also affects regional perfusion of the esophagus, thus compromising esophageal tissue defense mechanisms.