Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or, occasionally, bile flows back (refluxes) into your food pipe (esophagus). The backwash of acid irritates the lining of your esophagus and causes GERD symptoms.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn—a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Not everyone with GERD has heartburn. Other common symptoms of GERD include:
• Regurgitation
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chest and abdominal pain
• Dry cough
• Hoarseness
• Bad breath
Causes
GERD is caused by a malfunction in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach. Normally, the LES closes as soon as food passes through it. If the LES doesn’t close all the way or if it opens too often, acid produced by your stomach can move up into your esophagus.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will diagnose GERD based on your symptoms and a physical exam. Your doctor may also order tests, such as an upper endoscopy, to check for damage to your esophagus.
Treatment
Treatment for GERD includes lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.
• Lifestyle Changes: Making changes to your lifestyle can help reduce the symptoms of GERD. These changes include avoiding foods and drinks that trigger GERD symptoms, eating smaller meals, avoiding late-night meals, and avoiding lying down after eating.
• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce stomach acid and help relieve GERD symptoms. Common medications used to treat GERD include antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and H2 receptor blockers.
• Surgery: In severe cases of GERD, surgery may be recommended to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
By making lifestyle changes, taking medications, and, in some cases, undergoing surgery, many people with GERD are able to find relief from their symptoms.