What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Reflux means that stomach acid and juices flow from the stomach back up into the tube that leads from the throat to the stomach ( esophagus ). This



causes heartburn . When you have heartburn that bothers you often, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

Eating too much or bending forward after eating sometimes causes heartburn and a sour taste in the mouth. But having heartburn from time to time



doesn't mean that you have GERD. With GERD, the reflux and heartburn last longer and come more often. If this happens to you, be sure to get it



treated, because GERD can cause ulcers and damage to your esophagus.

What is GERD anyway?



How is GERD diagnosed?

First, your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you questions about your health. You may or may not need further tests. Your doctor may just treat your symptoms by recommending medicines that reduce or block stomach acid. These include H2 blockers such as famotidine (Pepcid) and proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole (Prilosec). If your heartburn goes away after you take the medicine, your doctor will likely diagnose GERD.





And what’s it got to do with heartburn?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid used for digestion repeatedly backs up, or refluxes, into the esophagus. GERD is also



known as acid reflux disease. Heartburn, often described as pain or burning in the chest, is a common symptom of GERD.



When you eat, millions of tiny pumps in your stomach produce the acid that helps you digest food.



A valve called the LES (lower esophageal sphincter)— opens between your esophagus and stomach to allow food and liquids to enter the stomach.



If the valve doesn't close all the way, or if it opens too often, stomach acid can move up into your esophagus and cause these symptoms:



Persistent heartburn



Stomach acid rising



Sour taste in the mouth



Burning in the throat



Pain or burning in the chest



Burping







Can GERD be a chronic disease?

Since heartburn and other symptoms of GERD affect different people in different ways, it's important to talk to your doctor. Only your doctor can



diagnose GERD and determine if there is any damage (erosions) to your esophagus.





Make managing your GERD easier

You can start taking control of your GERD symptoms with these

simple tips. They can help make a difference.



Avoid these potential trigger foods:



Chocolate



Fried and fatty foods



Peppermint and spearmint



Tomato-based foods



Coffee and other caffeinated drinks



Spicy foods



Onions



Citrus fruits



Alcohol



Eat small, frequent meals



Avoid eating 2–3 hours before bedtime



If you currently smoke, try to quit



Elevate the head of the bed