GERD is a disease that occurs when stomach acid often flows back into the tube that connects the mouth and stomach (esophagus). GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Quoted from the mayoclinic this disease occurs when stomach acid often flows back into the tube that connects the mouth and stomach (esophagus).
Many people experience acid reflux from time to time. This passage (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. GERD is mild acid reflux that occurs at least twice a week, or moderate to severe acid reflux that occurs at least once a week.
Most people can manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. But some people with GERD may need stronger medications or surgery to relieve symptoms.
Symptom
Common signs and symptoms of GERD include:
- A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which may be worse at night
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Regurgitation of acidic food or fluids
- Sensation of a lump in the throat
- If you experience acid reflux at night, you may also experience:
- Chronic cough
- Sore throat
- New or worsening asthma
- Disturbed sleep
When should you go to the doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if you have chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath, or jaw or arm pain. These may be signs and symptoms of a heart attack.
Make an appointment with your doctor if you:
Experiencing severe GERD symptoms or frequently taking over-the-counter medications for heartburn more than twice a week
The cause of GERD is due to frequent acid reflux.
When you swallow, the circular band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquids to flow into your stomach. Then the sphincter closes again.
If the sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back into your esophagus. This constant acid wash irritates the lining of your esophagus, often causing it to become inflamed.
Risk factors
- Conditions that can increase your risk of GERD include:
- Obesity
- Protrusion of the upper part of the abdomen into the diaphragm (hiatal hernia)
- Pregnancy
- Connective tissue disorders, such as scleroderma
- Delayed emptying of the stomach
Factors that can worsen acid reflux include:
- Smoke
- Eat large portions or eat late at night
- Eating certain foods (triggers) such as fatty or fried foods
- Drink certain beverages, such as alcohol or coffee
- Taking certain medications, such as aspirin
Complications
Scar tissue narrows the passage of food, leading to swallowing problems. Open sores in the esophagus (esophageal ulcers). Stomach acid can erode the tissue in the esophagus, causing open sores.
Esophageal ulcers can bleed, cause pain and make swallowing difficult. Precancerous changes in the esophagus (Barrett's esophagus). Acid damage can cause changes in the tissue that lines the lower esophagus. These changes are associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer.