Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects around 7.6% to 30% of the Indian population. It is a digestive disorder that occurs when stomach contents and acid flow back into the esophagus. Although people with GERD can live long, untreated cases may lead to esophageal inflammation, ulcers, and a higher risk of esophageal cancer.
Recognizing the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, both with or without esophagitis, helps anticipate the need for early intervention and treatment. This guide outlines the symptoms and causes of GERD, its risk factors, diagnostic measures, and various treatment options.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?
Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Frequently Asked Questions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition involving the reverse flow of stomach contents into the esophagus, the tube connecting the stomach to the mouth. This gastrointestinal disorder affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring that separates the esophagus from the stomach.
Patients with GERD tend to experience heartburn or acid indigestion. Physicians feel that a hiatal hernia could be a cause of GERD in some patients. Although most are able to control their GERD symptoms by changing their diet and lifestyle, others might need medication or surgery.
The common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are as follows:
The following are the main causes that are responsible for triggering gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD):
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) usually keeps stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When this muscle relaxes or becomes weak, acid reflux happens, resulting in GERD.
Excess weight, particularly around the abdominal area, puts extra pressure on the stomach, pushing acid into the esophagus.
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy may relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and pressure from the enlarging fetus on the stomach contributes to reflux.
A situation where a part of the stomach bulges up through the diaphragm and disrupts the usual functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter. This leads to increased stomach acid reflux, which can eventually turn into GERD.
Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), decreases saliva flow (which neutralizes stomach acid), and reduces the clearing of the esophagus while increasing the chances of GERD. Alcohol also hinders the LES and inflames the esophageal mucosa, thus triggering acid reflux.
Spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolates, caffeine, and fatty or fried foods can stimulate GERD. These can cause a temporary loosening of the LES or stimulate the production of acid.
Certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory agents to treat blood pressure and sedatives, weaken the LES or inflame the esophagus, which can exacerbate the symptoms of GERD. Some medications, such as drugs to treat asthma, sedatives, calcium channel blockers, antihistamines, and antidepressants, also contribute to GERD.
As you swallow, the LES should relax to enable food and liquid to enter the stomach and then close tightly. If this does not function properly, stomach acid can flow in the opposite direction, leading to GERD.
Following are the key diagnosis techniques used in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) diagnosis:
Effective treatment of GERD is a combination of lifestyle changes, medicines, and surgery. Treatment aims to control symptoms, avoid complications, and enhance quality of life. The following is an overview of the main treatment methods:
Establishing healthy lifestyle habits can easily ease GERD symptoms and minimize the recurrence of acid reflux. These simple lifestyle changes encompass the following:
When lifestyle modifications fail, medications may be used to control symptoms of GERD by lowering the production of acid in the stomach or enhancing the function of the esophagus. The most common medications are:
Surgery is often considered a last option when other treatments for GERD are unsuccessful. It is usually recommended if GERD leads to complications such as esophageal strictures, ulcers, or Barrett's esophagus. Some of the common surgeries are:
GERD is a tenacious ailment that can affect the quality of life if not treated. Early recognition of the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and proper treatment can control the disease and avert complications.
Having access to complete healthcare coverage will help you easily meet treatment expenses. Star Health Insurance offers comprehensive health insurance plans that provide peace of mind and protection against financial setbacks while taking care of your well-being.
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What medications are used to cure GERD?
<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify;">Some of the best medications to get relief from GERD include antacids, H2-receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). </p>
What are the stages of GERD?
<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify;">There are 4 stages of <strong>gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms</strong>. These include sore throat, hoarse voice, chronic cough, and dysphagia. </p>
Can GERD Cause Back Pain?
<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify;">If you experience heartburn due to GERD, you might feel a bitter taste, a burning sensation in your chest, and pain in the middle of your back. Fortunately, this pain may be relieved by good posture, regular exercise, and a healthy weight. </p>
What are the signs of GERD?
<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify;">The common signs of GERD include chest discomfort, nausea, difficulty swallowing or pain during swallowing. </p>
What foods are ideal for GERD patients?
<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify;">Individuals can get relief from <strong>gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms</strong> by consuming alkaline-based foods such as non-citrus fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein. </p>
What does gastroesophageal reflux disease without esophagitis symptoms mean?
<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify;">GERD without esophagitis is a type of GERD that does not involve inflammation of the esophagus. Physicians may consider this condition non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). </p>
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