A chronic condition where stomach acid regularly backs up into the esophagus.

What is GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid and stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Normally, a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens to allow food into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When the LES does not function properly, acid can repeatedly irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing symptoms and, over time, complications.

What causes GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)?
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes at inappropriate times, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus.

Several factors can increase the risk of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), including:

  • Obesity
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Pregnancy
  • Tobacco use
  • Alcohol use
  • Certain foods and beverages
  • Certain medications

Symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may occur occasionally or on a regular basis.

Common symptoms include:

  • Heartburn
  • Acid regurgitation
  • Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Chest discomfort
  • Chronic cough
  • Hoarseness
  • Frequent throat clearing
  • Wheezing or asthma-like symptoms

Some people may also experience sinus irritation, dental enamel erosion or a sensation of food sticking in the esophagus.

Diagnosing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Your provider will review your symptoms, medical history and perform a physical exam. Additional testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or evaluate complications.

Testing may include:

These tests help evaluate acid reflux, esophageal function and any damage to the esophagus.

Treatment for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Treatment focuses on reducing acid reflux, relieving symptoms and preventing complications.

Treatment options may include:

  • Lifestyle modifications
  • Acid-reducing medications
  • Endoscopic therapies for selected patients
  • Anti-reflux surgery when appropriate

Lifestyle modifications
Lifestyle changes are often the first step in managing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and may include:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding foods and beverages that trigger symptoms
  • Eating smaller meals
  • Avoiding meals within three hours of bedtime
  • Limiting alcohol
  • Avoiding tobacco products
  • Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping
  • Avoiding tight-fitting clothing around the abdomen

Medications
Your provider may recommend medications to reduce stomach acid and promote healing of the esophagus. Treatment is individualized based on the severity and frequency of your symptoms.

Procedures and surgery
For people whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with lifestyle changes and medication, additional treatment options may include:

  • Laparoscopic fundoplication
  • Magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINX®)
  • Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)

Your provider will discuss whether these options are appropriate based on your symptoms and anatomy.

Complications of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Without treatment, chronic acid reflux can lead to complications such as:

Managing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) early can help reduce the risk of these complications.

When to seek care
Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Food getting stuck when swallowing
  • Persistent cough or hoarseness
  • Chest discomfort related to reflux
  • Symptoms that do not improve with treatment

Seek immediate medical care if you experience severe chest pain, vomiting blood or black, tarry stools.

Contact us
If you have questions about GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or treatment options, please contact our office at 612-871-1145.

For more information, please see:
American Gastroenterological Association at www.gastro.org
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy www.asge.org