Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

General Information on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly called “GERD”, is a condition that occurs when the acids from the stomach reflux upwards into the esophagus. GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not properly close. The LES is a muscle located between the upper stomach and the esophagus. The LES is designed to operate like a valve between the two. If it does not close, stomach acid may leak into the esophagus. Common risk factors include alcohol abuse, obesity, hiatal hernias, smoking, and certain foods. The exact cause of the LES malfunction is currently unknown.

Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Symptoms of GERD include may worsen after meals or upon waking. Lying horizontal for long periods of time tends to increase the flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Common symptoms of GERD include:

Persistent heartburn
Regurgitation (acid leaks into the mouth)
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness upon waking
Dry cough
Excessive clearing of the throat
Throat tightness
Sensation of choking or food stuck in the throat
Burning in the mouth
Bad breath

Many infants grow out of GERD before reach 1 year of age. Symptoms of infant GERD include:

Repeated Vomiting
Coughing
Respiratory problems

Treatments For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

In most cases, your own observation of your symptoms is all that is needed for diagnosis. Your doctor will ask questions about your diet, symptoms, and activities. Medical tests, such as an endoscopy, may be issued immediately or after simple treatments have failed. Treatments of GERD include lifestyle changes, dietary changes, drugs, or surgery. If milder treatments fail to alleviate symptoms, such as dietary changes, quitting cigarettes, and antacids, additional medical testing may be performed to check for other contributing problems. A barium swallow, an endoscopy, or a measurement of acid reflux in the esophagus. A small device may be inserted into the esophagus for 24 to 48 hours that can take readings of daily acid levels. In the case of an esophageal stricture or failed alternative treatments, surgery may be an option for some patients. Almost all cases of GERD can be relieved with treatment over time. If you are experiencing symptoms similar to those listed above, contact your doctor for further examination.

Personal Experience

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - personal experiences