Abdomen, Pelvis, and Perineun

Gastroeesophageal Reflux Disease

What GERD Is

GERD is essentially frequent or persistent acid reflux. While occasional reflux is common, GERD is diagnosed when reflux happens twice a week or more or when it causes complications such as esophagitis or difficulty swallowing. MedlinePlus

Common Symptoms

Heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or when lying down. Mayo Clinic
Regurgitation — sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat.
Chest pain (non-cardiac).
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
Chronic cough or hoarseness — especially at night.
Asthma-like symptoms — due to acid reaching the airways.
Mayo Clinic MedlinePlus

What Causes GERD

GERD develops when the LES weakens or relaxes too often. Contributing factors include:

Hiatal hernia — part of the stomach pushes above the diaphragm.
Obesity — increases abdominal pressure.
Pregnancy — hormonal and pressure-related changes.
Smoking — relaxes the LES.
Certain foods — fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, mint.
Medications — NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers, sedatives, etc.
MedlinePlus

Potential Complications

If untreated, GERD can lead to:

Esophagitis — inflammation of the esophagus.
Esophageal strictures — narrowing due to scar tissue.
Barrett’s esophagus — precancerous tissue changes.
Respiratory issues — chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma.
niddk.nih.gov

How GERD Is Treated

Treatment usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication:

Lifestyle changes
- Smaller meals, avoiding late eating
- Elevating the head of the bed
- Weight loss if needed
- Avoiding trigger foods and alcohol
- Quitting smoking
  MedlinePlus
Medications
- Antacids
- H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine)
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) — most effective for healing
  health.harvard.edu
Surgery (for severe or unresponsive cases)
- Nissen fundoplication or other anti-reflux procedures
  health.harvard.edu