Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
What is Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the ring of muscle between the esophagus and the stomach. The LES opens to release food into the stomach and closes to prevent acid in the stomach from backing up into the esophagus. GERD can cause discomfort, pain, and other long-term health issues if left untreated.
What are the Symptoms of GERD?
Common symptoms of GERD include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Nausea
- Chest pain
- Coughing
What Causes GERD?
The exact cause of GERD is not known, but there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder, including obesity, pregnancy, smoking, certain medications, and having a weakened or overly relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES). GERD is also more common in people with asthma, diabetes, and neuromuscular disorders.
How is GERD Diagnosed?
GERD is usually diagnosed using a physical exam, patient history, and various diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, endoscopy, and barium swallow. Doctors may also order blood tests to rule out other medical conditions. In some cases, a pH study may be used to determine the amount of acid in the esophagus or to identify whether the acid is refluxing back up into the esophagus.
How is GERD Treated?
Common treatments for GERD include lifestyle changes such as weight loss and avoiding foods and drinks that trigger symptoms, medications to reduce acid production or strengthen the LES or surgeries to help reconstruct the LES or the upper part of the stomach.
