Introduction
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest, regurgitation of stomach acid, and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even esophageal cancer. Fortunately, there are several signs that can help you identify if you have GERD. In this article, we will discuss the signs of GERD according to physicians and provide tips on what to eat and what to avoid to help manage the condition.
Signs You Have GERD, According to Physicians
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach acid or bile flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications, such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even cancer. Fortunately, there are ways to identify and manage GERD before it becomes a serious problem.
What Are the Symptoms of GERD?
The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Other symptoms include:
- Regurgitation
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Coughing
- Sore throat
What Causes GERD?
GERD is caused by a malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus. Normally, it opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. When the LES is weak or doesn’t close properly, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus, causing GERD.
How Is GERD Diagnosed?
If you experience any of the symptoms of GERD, it’s important to see your doctor. Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. They may also order tests, such as an endoscopy or X-ray, to confirm the diagnosis. Once your doctor has diagnosed GERD, they can recommend treatment options.
How Is GERD Treated?
Treatment for GERD typically involves lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain foods and eating smaller meals. Your doctor may also recommend medications, such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors, to reduce stomach acid production. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the LES.
Conclusion
GERD is a common digestive disorder that can cause serious complications if left untreated. If you experience any of the symptoms of GERD, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment, you can manage your GERD and reduce your risk of complications.
For many people, heartburn is a minor and occasional discomfort. But for others, heartburn can become chronic, progressing to GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease), which raises your risk of developing one of the most lethal cancers. These are the symptoms of GERD that physicians say you should be on the lookout for (heartburn is only one). Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD are related, but those terms signify different things. “Heartburn is a condition in which you feel burning behind your chest, and it can be a symptom of reflux,” says Atif Iqbal, MD, FACS, FASMBS, medical director of the Digestive Care Center at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California. “Reflux is the medical term given to the stomach contents coming up into your esophagus. Heartburn is one of the common symptoms.”
GERD is a disease that occurs with progressive exposure of acid to the esophagus, says Iqbal. It develops slowly and may develop changes in the lining of the esophagus, leading to Barrett’s disease and esophageal cancer. Heartburn is one symptom of GERD.
RELATED: Here’s How to Stop Aging, Say Experts
People with GERD may experience a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Other symptoms may include:
- Regurgitation
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
If you’re experiencing symptoms of GERD, see your doctor. They will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order diagnostic tests specific for GERD, such as an upper endoscopy, a bravo capsule acid test, an esophageal motility test, or a barium swallow.
RELATED: I’m an M.D. and This is the #1 Sign You Have a Heart Problem
Acid reflux can have several triggers, says Iqbal, including certain drugs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, albuterol, antibiotics, and high blood pressure medications), certain supplements (like fish oil), smoking, stress, obesity, certain foods (like chocolate, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, or fatty or fried foods), alcohol, caffeine, and hiatal hernia.
RELATED: I’m a Doctor and This is the #1 Sign You Have High Blood Sugar
If GERD is mild, nonprescription antacids can be used, says Iqbal. Lifestyle changes can also help, including:
- Maintain a healthy weight. “Excess pounds put pressure on your abdomen, pushing up your stomach and causing acid to back up into your esophagus,” says Iqbal.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing. “Clothes that fit tightly around your waist put pressure on your abdomen and the lower esophageal sphincter,” notes Iqbal.
- Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn.
- Eat smaller meals.
- Don’t lie down after a meal. Iqbal recommends waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
- Elevate the head of your bed. If you regularly experience heartburn at night or while trying to sleep, Iqbal advises raising the head of your bed by six to nine inches. You can do this by placing wood or cement blocks under the feet of your bed, or inserting a wedge between your mattress and box spring to elevate your body from the waist up.
- Don’t smoke.
For moderate to severe GERD, surgery may be necessary to repair the mechanical defect in the esophagus that causes acid reflux. And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.