Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
This page provides everything you need to know about GERD.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?
It is a condition where the stomach contents and acids escape backward from the stomach into the esophagus,( which transports food from your mouth to your stomach). GERD can irritate the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms such as discomfort behind the sternum.
- What are the symptoms of GERD?
- A burning sensation in the stomach, behind the breastbone (heartburn).
- A sour, unpleasant taste in the mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Persistent cough.
- Inflammation in the larynx.
- Chest pain.
- Dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Belching.
What are the causes of GERD?
During normal digestion, food passes through the esophagus from the throat to the stomach. The muscular valve separating the esophagus from the stomach relaxes, allowing food into the stomach. Then it closes to prevent the food and stomach acids from returning to the esophagus. When the stomach’s muscular valve fails to close, the stomach’s contents and acids can leak into the esophagus. This is known as gastroesophageal reflux.
- Several factors can weaken or relax the stomach’s muscular valve, such as:
- Obesity.
- Pregnancy.
- Smoking.
- Hiatal hernia.
Certain medications, like aspirin. Talk to your doctor if you suspect that one of your medications is causing heartburn. Never change or stop any medication without consulting your doctor first.
How is GERD diagnosed?
- The doctor takes a medical history and performs a clinical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, such as:
- Barium X-ray (after drinking a barium contrast solution).
- Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Monitoring esophageal pH levels.
What are the treatment methods for GERD?
- GERD treatment methods can involve adopting specific lifestyle changes. In some cases, doctors may resort to medications such as:
- -HAntacids.
- – H2-receptor blockers to reduce acid production from the stomach.
– Proton pump inhibitors.
- What are the prevention methods for GERD?
- – Avoid foods and drinks that worsen symptoms, such as fatty foods, chocolate, spicy foods, and coffee.
- – Try to lose weight if you are obese.
- – Quit smoking if you smoke.
- – Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- – Have dinner at least two to three hours before bedtime.
– Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
- What are the complications of GERD?
- Esophagitis (esophageal ulcer)
- Esophageal stricture.
Barrett’s esophagus, which in some cases can progress to esophageal cancer.
- When should you see a doctor?
- If you experience heartburn more than twice a week.
- If you experience chest pain.
- If you experience difficulty and pain when swallowing.
- If you experience persistent vomiting and nausea.
If heartburn continues despite medication and lifestyle changes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is there a definitive treatment for GERD?
Yes. If medications do not relieve symptoms, GERD can be treated through surgical intervention.
Why is GERD common among those who have had obesity surgeries?
