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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It can irritate the esophagus lining and cause heartburn, chest pain, and regurgitation. The likelihood of developing GERD (mild or severe) increases among people over the age of 40. In addition, if you are overweight or obese, you are more likely to have it.
Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Dangerous?
GERD can be dangerous and lead to more serious health problems if not treated, and acid reflux is allowed to continue. The acid can erode the esophagus lining, leading to ulcers and even cancer.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Symptoms
Almost everyone with Gastroesophageal Reflux experiences heartburn or chest pain, a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid traveling up into the esophagus. It may lead to regurgitation, where you feel like a sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth.
Other symptoms of GERD Include
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Bloating
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Sore throat
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Coughing
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Bad breath
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Difficulty swallowing (Dysphagia)
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Hoarseness (rough/strained voice)
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Nausea and vomiting
Infants and children may have episodes of vomiting, choking, excessive crying and unwillingness to eat due to irritation of acid reflux.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is crucial to speak to your doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Please book an appointment with a Consultant and get the best Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease treatment in Millers Road Bangalore.
What Can Cause GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can be caused by several factors. The most common cause of acid reflux or GERD is a hiatal hernia. It occurs when the stomach swells through a small opening in the diaphragm muscle and into the chest cavity. This opening allows acidic stomach contents to move up the esophagus.
Other Common High-Risk Factors for GERD are as Follows
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Obesity
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Pregnancy
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Smoking
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Certain medications
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Certain dietary habits
Obesity
Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen, leading to stomach acid reflux.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women experience GERD due to the extra pressure the growing baby puts on the abdomen.
Smoking
Smoking can irritate the lining of the esophagus.
Medications
Certain medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and calcium channel blockers, can relax the muscle fibers in the lower esophagus (sphincter), and trigger GERD.
Dietary habits
Eating certain foods such as fatty/fried foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and tomato-based products can trigger reflux. Having large meals, lying down after eating, or eating close to bedtime can also increase the risk of GERD.
Certain medical conditions such as a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), delayed stomach emptying, and abnormal esophageal contractions can also cause GERD.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Treatment
Treating GERD depends on the severity of the condition. The most common treatment options include either lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions - alone or in combination.
Mild cases of GERD can usually be managed with lifestyle changes which are listed below:
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Don’t go to bed instantly after eating
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Eat 4-5 smaller meals than one larger meal
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Stop smoking
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Avoid eating foods that are spicy, acidic, or high in fat
More severe cases of acid reflux may require medications and/or surgery. Common medications prescribed for GERD include:
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Antacids
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H2 receptor blockers
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Proton pump inhibitors
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Prokinetic agents
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Promotility agents
In the surgical approach, the most common procedure is Fundoplication. This procedure is followed for strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter and preventing acid reflux. Other surgical methods are Endoscopic procedures such as Endoscopic mucosal resection, Radiofrequency ablation, and Endoscopic suturing.
Please visit a top Medical Gastroenterologist in Millers Road Bangalore, and receive the best treatment for GERD.
FAQs
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Who can get GERD?
Usually, people over age 40 are at risk for developing GERD. Other factors that may aggravate GERD include obesity, pregnancy, smoking & drinking, Certain medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics, etc.), and dietary habits (eating large, high-fat meals).
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Can Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) be cured?
GERD can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery. The goal of treatment for GERD is to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
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Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) hereditary?
It is not clear whether GERD is hereditary. However, some evidence suggests that certain gene variants may be associated with an increased risk of GERD.
