Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Causes, Symptoms, And Its Treatment

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or gastroesophageal reflux, is a very common digestive disorder. It occurs when the stomach’s contents come back up through the tube that connects the mouth and stomach (esophagus). This is called reflux. Reflux usually occurs when the muscle at the end of the tube does not close properly. This allows acid from the stomach to move into the esophagus. GERD is usually harmless and goes away by itself over time. But it can cause troublesome symptoms for some people. If you have frequent symptoms of heartburn, regurgitation, or a sour taste in your mouth, call your doctor for an appointment. You are likely suffering from GERD.

What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which the esophagus becomes irritated because of acid coming back up from the stomach. The esophagus is also known as the food pipe is the tube stretching from the throat to the stomach. When food is swallowed and it is traveled down to the esophagus.

Pregnant women also suffer from heartburn or acid indigestion caused by GERD.

Causes of GERD

GERD has many causes, but one of them is a malfunctioning esophageal sphincter. This sphincter is a valve-like muscle located at the bottom of the esophagus that opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to prevent food from flowing back up into the esophagus. Sometimes it malfunctions and does not close when it should. Other factors can cause this muscle to malfunction as well:

1. Being overweight or obese
2. Eating large meals
3. Lying down after a large meal
4. Alcohol use
5. Smoking tobacco products
6. Pregnancy
7. Hiatal hernia

Symptoms of GERD

The primary symptom of GERD is heartburn. This is a burning feeling that the chest, where the esophagus is located. The sensation can be felt in the neck and throat. The heartburn can extend up to the jaw, teeth, and ears. Some people may also feel like their food is stuck in their throat or that they are choking.

When a person has GERD, heartburn, or other symptoms it causes serious discomfort. GERD can be a problem if it’s not treated because, over time, the reflux of stomach acid damages the inner lining of the esophagus, causing inflammation and pain. In adults, long-lasting, untreated GERD can lead to permanent damage to the esophagus and sometimes even cancer.

Although symptoms of the condition are varied, they may include:

1. A burning sensation in your chest usually after eating, which can be worse at night
2. Chest pain
3. Difficulty swallowing
4. Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
5. The sensation of a lump in your throat

Treatment of GERD

Treatment for GERD is dependent on how severe the symptoms are. Following the tips listed above may be enough to control the symptoms for some people. For others, medication or surgery may be needed.

There are several Medications to treat GERD and reduce stomach acid.

Surgery is an option if medicines don’t work or have side effects. The two main types of surgery for GERD are fundoplication and endoscopic procedures:

Fundoplication is the most common surgery for GERD. The surgeon wraps the top of your stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen it, prevent acid reflux, and repair a hiatal hernia.

Endoscopic procedures are performed using an endoscope — a long, flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it. These procedures can be used

So, there you have it, a fairly comprehensive guide on GERD for those that wish to learn more about the condition. There are many steps you can take to improve your GERD symptoms.

Many of these steps are preventative and focus on lifestyle changes, such as eating less spicy food, limiting certain foods and beverages, and quitting smoking. From there, trying your best to live a healthy lifestyle is important. With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, GERD can be managed effectively.

If you want help, it’s best to consult with a medical professional. Remember to stay positive, take care of yourself, and good luck!