Acid reflux and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) are digestive disorders affecting millions worldwide. Both conditions are caused by the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, coughing, and nausea.
While acid reflux is a common and usually mild condition, GERD is a more severe form of acid reflux that can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a common problem in which stomach acid flows back into the food pipe connecting your throat and stomach. You may experience heartburn during an episode of GER—burning sensations radiating from your chest after eating heavily or consuming coffee/alcohol.
Frequent bouts of heartburn are the primary symptom indicating that acid reflux may have progressed to a more severe form, known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD). Other telltale signs include regurgitated food or sour liquids, difficulty swallowing, and coughing or wheezing. Chest pain is also an ailment that might be felt, especially when lying at night.
Acid reflux and GERD cause similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between them without proper medical evaluation. These symptoms can range from heartburn and regurgitation to coughing and difficulty swallowing. Other symptoms include:
GERD is triggered by a malfunction in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which typically opens and closes after swallowing to prevent digestive contents from rising back up your esophagus.
However, when not working correctly, it fails to close properly, resulting in stomach acids traveling upwards into the food pipe—causing unpleasant symptoms of acid reflux.
Other potential contributing factors include:
Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing GERD, including:
Over time, if left unchecked, chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on your esophagus—leading to a host of health issues, such as:
Food items that May worsen GERD symptoms: Particular food and drink items may serve as triggers for those diagnosed with GERD, causing symptoms to arise. Triggers can vary significantly from person to person, but some commonly reported foods tend to trigger GERD symptoms more frequently, such as:
Diagnosing acid reflux and GERD involves a range of tests to determine the underlying cause of symptoms. One such test is an X-ray of the abdomen or upper digestive tract, which allows doctors to visualize any blockages that might be present. Endoscopy is another option that examines the gastrointestinal tract and allows tissue samples to be taken if necessary.
In addition to these tests, other diagnostic methods for acid reflux and GERD include pH monitoring to measure stomach acid levels, manometry to evaluate muscle contractions, and impedance monitoring to assess food movement through the digestive system and changes air pressure during swallowing.
These tests provide crucial information to help healthcare providers make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment for acid reflux and GERD typically depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding triggers like fatty foods and late-night eating, can often relieve mild cases. Relieving symptoms by neutralizing excess stomach acid using over-the-counter antacids, such as calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, is also possible.
Prescription medications, such as proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor blockers, may be required for managing more severe cases of acid reflux and GERD. These medications work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
Surgery, such as a Nissen fundoplication, may be recommended to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Working closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your needs is essential.
Self-medication may provide brief relief for those experiencing chronic heartburn but is not likely a lasting solution. Consulting with your doctor is the best way to personalize a treatment plan for long-term health and well-being.
Some home remedies commonly suggested for acid reflux may be harmful and are best avoided, including:
Acid reflux doesn't have to be a constant in your life. Sure, everyone experiences it occasionally, but if it's happening regularly, it may be a sign that you need treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
If you're experiencing persistent acid reflux, don't hesitate to contact your doctor. They can work with you to create a personalized plan that fits your lifestyle and needs, whether over-the-counter medications or surgery in more severe cases. Don't let acid reflux hold you back—take control and live your life to the fullest!
