Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
What is GERD ?
GERD occurs when stomach acid/contents frequently flows back into the esophagus irritating its Lining. GERD can significantly impair daily life and sleep. Leaving it untreated allows stomach acid to continuously damage the esophagus, leading to serious complications like:
- Esophagitis.
- Dysphagia
- Strictures (narrowing)/Esophageal obstruction.
- Barrett’s Esophagus.
- AN INCREASED RISK OF ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
Acid reflux symptoms can include:
- Burning in your chest (heartburn)
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Feeling like you have a lump in your throat
- Sour taste in the back of your mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dry Cough
- Hoarseness
Almost everyone experiences these symptoms at some point, but if they keep coming back, they can become highly disruptive.
Common Causes
- Obesity
- Fatty/Fried foods
- Caffeine
- Peppermint
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Dietary choices.
Treatment Options
When do I need acid reflux treatment?
If you’re taking an increasing amount of over-the-counter medications to try to cope with your symptoms, or if you have recurrent acid reflux, it’s time to see the team at Gastrointestinal Consultants for help. Recurrent acid reflux might not respond to medication, and it can make life extremely uncomfortable. If you have mild acid reflux two or more times a week, or moderate-to-severe acid reflux at least once per week, it’s categorized as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Lifestyle: Losing weight, eating smaller meals, elevating the head of the bed.
- Dietary: Limiting fatty/fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, alcohol, citrus fruits, and tomato- based products.
- Medication: Over-the-counter antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
- Endoscopic Evaluation and monitoring for complications.
Meet one of our providers to discuss the care options and monitoring for the condition.