Health A-Z

GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Here's an overview of its symptoms, treatment options, and diagnosis/testing procedures.

1. Heartburn: Burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night.
2. Regurgitation: Sour-tasting fluid backing up into the throat or mouth.
3. Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing.
4. Chest pain: Often mistaken for a heart attack.
5. Chronic cough: Especially at night.
6. Laryngitis: Hoarseness or sore throat.
7. Dental erosion: Acid can damage tooth enamel over time.

1. Lifestyle Changes:
   • Elevate the head of your bed.
   • Avoid trigger foods and drinks (e.g., spicy, fatty, or acidic foods; caffeine; alcohol).
   • Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
   • Avoid lying down or bending over after eating.
   • Lose weight if overweight.
2. Medications:
   • Antacids: Neutralize stomach acid.
   • H2 blockers: Reduce acid production.
   • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Block acid production.
   • Prokinetics: Help the stomach empty faster.
3. Surgery: In severe cases, where medications and lifestyle changes are ineffective, surgical procedures such as fundoplication may be considered to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or create a barrier to prevent reflux.

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor will review your symptoms and medical history and may perform a physical examination.
2. Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is passed down your throat to examine the esophagus and stomach lining for inflammation and signs of damage.
3. Esophageal pH Monitoring: This test measures the amount of acid in your esophagus over a 24-hour period.
4. Esophageal Manometry: This test measures the strength and coordination of the muscles in your esophagus.
5. Barium Swallow X-ray: You swallow a chalky liquid that coats the esophagus and stomach, then X-rays are taken to detect any abnormalities.
6. Ambulatory Acid (pH) Probe Test: A thin tube is inserted through your nose into the esophagus to measure acid levels over 24 hours.
7. Upper Endoscopy: A procedure in which a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera is inserted down your throat to examine the esophagus and stomach lining.