Everything You Need to Know About Acid Reflux and GERD

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) happens when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Experiencing symptoms twice weekly or more may indicate GERD, which can lead to complications if left untreated. Learn about GERD symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Table of Contents:

  1. GERD Symptoms
  2. Infant GERD Symptoms
  3. GERD Causes
  4. Diagnosing GERD
  5. GERD Treatments
  6. Potential Complications
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. Key Takeaways

GERD Symptoms

GERD symptoms vary from mild to severe. Recognizing them is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. Common symptoms include:

  1. Heartburn: A burning chest sensation, often after eating or when lying down
  2. Regurgitation: Sour/bitter taste from stomach acid rising into the throat
  3. Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing or feeling food stuck in the throat
  4. Chronic Cough: Persistent cough, especially at night
  5. Hoarseness/Sore Throat: From acid irritating vocal cords and throat
  6. Chest Pain: Burning discomfort that may radiate
  7. Respiratory Issues: Asthma, wheezing, or pneumonia from acid reflux
  8. Nighttime Symptoms: Disrupted sleep from coughing/regurgitation

Symptoms vary between individuals. Persistent symptoms warrant medical evaluation.

Infant GERD Symptoms

Infant GERD signs include:

  1. Excessive spitting up with fussiness
  2. Back arching during/after feeding
  3. Irritability during feedings
  4. Poor weight gain
  5. Swallowing difficulties
  6. Chronic cough/wheezing
  7. Excessive drooling
  8. Recurrent ear infections
  9. Sleep disturbances
  10. Breathing problems

Consult a pediatrician if these symptoms persist.

GERD Causes

Primary causes include:

  1. Hiatal hernia
  2. Weak lower esophageal sphincter
  3. Trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fatty foods)
  4. Obesity
  5. Pregnancy
  6. Smoking
  7. Certain medications
  8. Delayed stomach emptying
  9. Connective tissue disorders

Diagnosing GERD

Diagnostic methods include:

  1. Medical history review
  2. Physical exam
  3. Symptom questionnaires
  4. Acid suppression trial
  5. Esophageal pH monitoring
  6. Esophageal manometry
  7. Upper endoscopy
  8. Barium swallow
  9. Impedance-pH monitoring
  10. Biopsy (if needed)

Testing helps determine appropriate treatment approaches.

GERD Treatments

Treatment options include:

  1. Lifestyle Changes:
    • Avoid trigger foods
    • Eat smaller meals
    • Maintain healthy weight
    • Elevate bed head
  2. Medications:
    • PPIs (omeprazole, etc.)
    • H2 blockers (famotidine, etc.)
    • Antacids
    • Prokinetics
  3. Surgical Options:
    • Fundoplication
    • LINX device
  4. Endoscopic Procedures:
    • Stretta
    • Endoscopic suturing
  5. Complication Management:
    • Esophagitis treatment
    • Barrett’s esophagus monitoring

Treatment plans are personalized based on symptom severity.

Potential Complications

Untreated GERD may cause:

  1. Esophagitis (esophageal inflammation)
  2. Barrett’s esophagus (pre-cancerous changes)
  3. Esophageal strictures (narrowing)
  4. Respiratory problems
  5. Increased cancer risk
  6. Dental erosion
  7. Lung inflammation
  8. Sleep disruption
  9. Severe esophageal damage
  10. Swallowing difficulties

Early treatment helps prevent complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is GERD?
    • A chronic condition where stomach acid frequently refluxes into the esophagus
  2. Common symptoms?
    • Heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, swallowing difficulties
  3. Main causes?
    • Weak esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia, obesity, certain foods
  4. How is it diagnosed?
    • Through medical history, exams, and specialized tests
  5. Treatment options?
    • Lifestyle changes, medications, procedures, or surgery
  6. Possible complications?
    • Esophageal damage, respiratory issues, increased cancer risk
  7. GERD vs heartburn?
    • Heartburn is a symptom; GERD is the chronic condition
  8. Home remedies?
    • Dietary changes, meal timing, head elevation
  9. When to see a doctor?
    • For frequent symptoms or difficulty swallowing/weight loss
  10. Is GERD curable?
    • Manageable but typically requires ongoing treatment

Key Takeaways

GERD is a chronic condition requiring proper management. Key points:

  • Caused by stomach acid reflux into the esophagus
  • Common symptoms include heartburn and regurgitation
  • Diagnosed through medical evaluation and testing
  • Treatable with lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures
  • Can lead to serious complications if untreated
  • Effective management improves quality of life

Consult a healthcare provider for persistent GERD symptoms to prevent complications and maintain digestive health.