Disease
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Overview of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a long-term digestive disorder where stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus.
This condition, commonly known as acid reflux, causes irritation, inflammation, and discomfort.
GERD is more than just occasional heartburn and it can significantly affect your daily life if left untreated.
Understanding what is GERD, its triggers and how to manage it can help you maintain a healthier lifestyle and avoid complications.
Types of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Non-Erosive Reflux Disease (NERD): Acid reflux occurs without any visible damage to the esophagus.
- Erosive Esophagitis: Stomach acid damages the lining of the esophagus, causing inflammation.
- Barrett’s Esophagus: A serious form where long-term reflux leads to changes in the esophageal lining, increasing cancer risk.
Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), often after meals or at night.
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth due to regurgitation.
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing.
- Sensation of a lump in the throat or chest tightness.
- Frequent throat clearing, dry cough, or hoarseness.
- Feeling of food coming back up into the throat or mouth.
- Disrupted sleep due to acid reflux symptoms worsening when lying down.
Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Weak or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES) allowing stomach acid to flow back.
- Obesity or increased abdominal pressure contributing to reflux.
- Eating large meals or lying down soon after eating.
- Frequent consumption of spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.
- Smoking or alcohol intake irritating the esophageal lining.
- Certain medications that relax the LES, like NSAIDs or calcium channel blockers.
- Pregnancy-related hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach.
Complications in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Chronic esophagitis that can cause ulcers and bleeding.
- Narrowing of the esophagus (strictures) making swallowing difficult.
- Barrett’s esophagus, which may lead to a higher risk of esophageal cancer.
- Persistent cough, asthma, or breathing issues due to acid entering airways.
- Enamel erosion and dental problems from prolonged acid exposure.
Risk Factors of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Being overweight or having abdominal obesity.
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Pregnancy, due to increased pressure on the stomach.
- A diet high in acidic, fried, or spicy foods.
- Regular use of certain medications that weaken the LES.
- Having a hiatal hernia, which allows stomach acid to escape more easily.
Preventions of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Eat smaller, balanced meals throughout the day.
- Avoid lying down or sleeping right after meals.
- Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and trigger foods.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your stomach.
- Stop smoking to improve LES function and reduce irritation.
- Elevate the head of your bed to prevent night-time reflux.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes that don’t press on your stomach.
Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Upper endoscopy to check for inflammation or damage in the esophagus.
- pH monitoring to measure acid levels in the esophagus over 24 hours.
- Esophageal manometry to assess muscle strength and movement in the esophagus.
- Barium swallow X-ray to see the shape and motion of the upper digestive tract.
- Diagnosis is usually confirmed if symptoms persist despite basic lifestyle changes.
Treatments of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Over the counter medications like antacids to neutralize stomach acid.
- H2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production.
- Prokinetic agents to help the stomach empty faster.
- Surgery, such as fundoplication, in severe or non-responsive GERD cases.
- Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment if needed.
Prognosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- GERD is manageable with proper lifestyle changes and medication.
- Most people experience significant relief and improved quality of life.
- Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term damage and complications.
- Lifelong monitoring may be needed in chronic or severe cases.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- We offer expert diagnosis and management for GERD and related acid reflux conditions.
- Personalised treatment plans based on individual symptoms and medical history.
- Diet and nutrition support to help reduce reflux triggers.
- Access to top gastroenterologists and advanced diagnostic tools.
- Ongoing care and follow-up to ensure long term relief and health improvement.
- Supportive environment focusing on comfort, safety, and patient education.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- 1. What is the difference between GERD and heartburn?
- 2. Could my sore throat and cough be caused by acid reflux?
- 3. Will GERD go away if I lose weight?
- 4. How do I know if I have Barrett’s Esophagus?
- 5. Is surgery the only option if medicines don’t work?
- 6. What foods should I completely avoid with GERD?
- 7. Can GERD be permanently cured?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of GERD meaning and causes.
- Assessment of lifestyle and dietary habits.
- Discussion about what causes gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- Guidance on managing triggers.
- Education on potential complications and treatment options.
- Empathetic listening and tailored care plans.