What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a digestive disease that occurs when acid in the stomach goes back into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the throat with the stomach. Leaving GERD untreated may result in damage to the esophagus including narrowing of the tube, ulcerations and bleeding. GERD is linked to Barrett’s esophagus, a condition where damage to the esophagus leads to cancer. Approximately half of the people with GERD also have erosive esophagitis, a condition where the lining of the esophagus has eroded away due to untreated acid reflux. 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the sphincter located between the stomach and esophagus does not work properly. The main symptom of GERD is repetitive heartburn, the burning feeling that occurs in the lower chest and rises toward the throat. You may also experience a sour or bitter taste in the throat. Heartburn symptoms occurring more than twice a week is an indicator there may be a problem. Set up an appointment with your physician to have a complete examination and discuss the symptoms present. 

A physician may require an endoscopy procedure to confirm a GERD diagnosis. Treatment for GERD includes lowering the intragastric pH to prevent damage during reflux. Initial treatment is a change in diet to reduce stomach pH and over-the-counter antacids. A proton pump inhibitor is a treatment option to assist with lowering the pH. Severe cases of GERD may require a surgical procedure to reinforce the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus. 

Patients suffering from GERD will benefit by making lifestyle changes to reduce heartburn. Losing excess pounds to reach a healthy weight for your body will reduce the pressure placed on the abdomen. Foods that may trigger heartburn include high fat or fried foods, garlic, onion, chocolate, mint, alcohol and caffeine. Limit or avoid these foods to see if they reduce the incidence of heartburn. Avoid smoking as this reduces the sphincter’s strength and functioning properties.