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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Condition Basics

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What is gastroesophageal reflux disease?

Reflux, Opens dialog means that stomach acid and juices flow from the stomach back up into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This causes heartburn or regurgitation. Regurgitation happens when food and liquid back up from the stomach into the esophagus and mouth. When you have heartburn or regurgitation that bother you often, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. This can also cause pain and inflammation in your esophagus (esophagitis). You may also hear GERD called acid reflux.

Eating too much close to bedtime or before lying down sometimes can cause symptoms. But having heartburn or regurgitation from time to time doesn't mean that you have GERD. With GERD, the reflux and heartburn last longer and happen more often.

What causes it?

Normally when you swallow food, it travels down the esophagus. A valve opens to let the food pass into the stomach, and then the valve closes. With GERD, the valve doesn't close tightly enough. Stomach acid and juices from the stomach flow back up (reflux) into the esophagus.

What are the symptoms of GERD?

The main symptoms of GERD are heartburn and regurgitation. Heartburn feels like burning or pain behind the breastbone. Regurgitation happens when food and liquid back up from the stomach into the esophagus and mouth. It is common to have symptoms when you're trying to sleep.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, such as whether you often have heartburn. If you do, your doctor may recommend a medicine that reduces or blocks stomach acid to see if it helps. Some people need tests like an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy or tests for acid in the esophagus.

How is GERD treated?

Treatment starts with changing your habits and taking over-the-counter medicines. For example, not eating for a few hours before bedtime may help. Try medicines such as antacids (like Tums) or H2 blockers (like Pepcid). If you don't get better, a doctor may suggest more testing or a change in medicine. Some people need surgery.

What can you do to reduce your symptoms?

Take your medicines as directed. These may include prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Eat several small meals a day. Avoid foods that make your GERD worse, like chocolate, mint, and spicy foods. After eating, wait 2 to 3 hours before lying down. For symptoms when you are trying to sleep, raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches.

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Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.