Gastroesophageal reflux disease<\/a> (GERD) is a digestive disorder that happens due to the retrograde flow of stomach content back into the esophagus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n More precisely, GERD is a condition where stomach acid frequently goes back into the esophagus and irritates the esophageal lining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You have acid reflux<\/a> because the lower esophageal sphincter, a valve located at the end of the esophagus, fails to close adequately when food reaches your stomach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As a result, acid backwash flows back up the esophagus into a person\u2019s mouth and throat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s why you have a sour taste in your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n [bensnaturalhealthIinlineLeadGen id =”1″ event=”Eye Health Diet Plan Download” image=”https:\/\/blog.bensnaturalhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Eye-Heath-Ipad-1.png” title=”Get Your FREE Eye Health Diet Plan” content=”##Nine most important vitamins for eye health ##How to naturally protect and improve your eye health as you age ##Developed exclusively by our medical doctor”]<\/p>\n\n\n\n Acid reflux and GERD are often used as interchangeable terms, but they\u2019re not the same. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Acid reflux is a medical condition characterized by the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n People often have heartburn<\/a> during an episode with acid reflux. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes acid reflux may develop into GERD, a chronic and more severe form of the condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In other words, GERD is more serious acid reflux. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Acid reflux may lead to GERD, but it doesn\u2019t have to in all cases. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While most people will experience acid reflux at some point in their lives, not all of them will have GERD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s the main difference between these two forms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The most common signs and typical symptoms of GERD include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to the abovementioned symptom, a person with GERD may also have a chronic cough and laryngitis if they also experience nighttime acid reflux. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Other nighttime acid reflux symptoms include disrupted sleep and new or worsening asthma symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s easy to think these symptoms are associated with other digestive problem and ignore until they go away. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With GERD, going away is not always the option. <\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s why you should see your doctor and describe all symptoms you\u2019re experiencing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Frequent acid reflux is the main cause of GERD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Upon swallowing, the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow liquid and food to move to the stomach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n After swallowing, the sphincter closes again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Weakened sphincter and other problems allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When this happens for a while, you may experience irritations and inflammation on your esophagus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While anyone can develop GERD, some people have a higher risk than others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Common risk factors<\/a> include age, sex, lack of physical exercise, medication use, stress, low or high BMI, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking<\/a>, and unhealthy diet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to age and sex, GERD is more common in women and with increasing age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Other risk factors also include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Untreated GERD, or a condition that is unmanaged properly, can lead to serious complications <\/a>such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Damage from acid can induce changes in the tissue lining of the lower esophagus. This may lead to esophageal cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is due to scar tissue formation in response to damage to the lower esophagus brought on by stomach acid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The formation of scar tissue narrows the food pathway making it difficult to swallow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An esophagus tissue that can be worn away by gastric acid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As a result, open sore forms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In some cases, the ulcer is painful, bleeds, and may cause difficulty swallowing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Besides the abovementioned complications, GERD may also cause asthma, chronic cough, and other breathing problems if you breathe stomach acid into the lungs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Moreover, this condition can cause tooth enamel erosion and contribute to gum disease and other dental problems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is also important to mention erosive esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus with evident esophageal damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can reduce the risk of complications by managing your symptoms or adhering to the treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The smartest thing to do is see the doctor if you experience the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they are persistent or severe such as chronic heartburn. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You should also consider scheduling an appointment to see the doctor if you take over-the-counter heartburn medications twice a week or more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Immediate medical assistance is necessary for persons with chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath and pain in the jaw or arm. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These could be the symptoms of a heart attack<\/a>. You should never ignore them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Symptoms of GERD should not be ignored. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Follow instructions from the section above to see your doctor and describe symptoms in detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Based on the symptoms you report, the doctor will presume GERD could be the culprit, but they need more information to make an accurate diagnosis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The healthcare professional will perform a physical exam and may order some diagnostic tests such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You need to drink a chalky liquid that fills and coats the digestive tract lining. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Thanks to this coating, the doctor can see a silhouette of your stomach, esophagus, and upper intestine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is to examine the inside of the stomach and esophagus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The test may detect esophageal inflammation or esophagitis and other complications. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes this test is done to perform a biopsy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in a patient\u2019s esophagus as they swallow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, doctors may use this test to measure force and coordination that esophageal muscles exert <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is to detect when regurgitation occurs and how long it lasts<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once the doctor gets all information necessary to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, they will diagnose GERD and recommend adequate treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Healthcare professionals may recommend a patient with GERD start with over-the-counter medications and lifestyle modification first. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if this approach is ineffective, you could need stronger prescription medications or surgery even.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regardless of the severity of symptoms, whether they\u2019re mild or not, you need to modify your lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, the importance of healthy lifestyle choices is often underestimated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But let\u2019s start with the actual treatment for GERD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Over-the-counter medications may include antacids to neutralize stomach acid and medication to reduce the production of acid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, you may need to take medications that inhibit acid production and promote healing of the esophagus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n E.g. famotidine (Pepcid) and nizatidine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although these drugs are generally well-tolerated, long-term use may increase the risk of bone fractures and vitamin B12 deficiency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n E.g. esomeprazole (Nexium), omeprazole (Zegerid, Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid) etc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These medications are usually safe but may cause headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and vitamin B12 deficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n E.g. baclofen. Fatigue and nausea are common side effects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In cases when lifestyle modifications and medications (both OTC and prescription) don\u2019t work, the doctor may recommend surgery or other procedures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The procedure where a surgeon uses polypropylene fasteners to create a partial wrap around the lower esophagus to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The procedure is performed through a patient\u2019s mouth with an endoscope only. <\/p>\n\n\n\n No incision is necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n High tolerance and quick recovery are the main advantages of TIF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This involves wrapping the top of the stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Wrapping can be partial or complete. The procedure is minimally invasive<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A doctor wraps a ring of small magnetic beads around the esophagus and junction of the stomach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Beads have a magnetic attraction that is strong enough to prevent acid reflux<\/a> but still allows for the passing of the food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The cornerstone of GERD treatment is a healthy lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These include weight loss and maintenance, avoiding meals at least three hours before bedtime, and maintaining good sleep hygiene. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Make sure your diet doesn\u2019t include chocolate, spicy foods, caffeine, carbonated beverages, and citrus fruits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n GERD can harm a patient\u2019s quality of life, particularly when symptoms are severe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The more you adhere to the doctor\u2019s instructions, the easier it will be to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to medications recommended by your healthcare provider, you may also want to check out some home remedies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you can see below, a great deal of these home remedies revolves around a healthy lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some foods can worsen symptoms of GERD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These include tomato and tomato-based products, mint, onions, garlic<\/a>, chocolate, caffeine, soda, citrus fruit juices, fried foods, high-fat foods, and alcohol. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re not sure what your trigger is, you may want to start a food journal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This way, you will put less pressure on the stomach and prevent the backflow of stomach acid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Make sure your diet contains high-protein, low-fat meals, and foods abundant in fiber.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This unhealthy habit can cause or contribute to heartburn. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Smoking can damage the lower esophageal sphincter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chamomile, slippery elm<\/a>, marshmallow, and licorice to help manage GERD symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They are also available in the form of dietary supplements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This has nothing to do with fashion or appearance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Tight clothes can increase acid reflux, particularly when you\u2019re wearing tight bottoms and belts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wait at least three hours before you do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This may be necessary if you have heartburn at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You may want to place cement or wood blocks under the feet of the bed so that your head is slightly raised. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If elevating your bed is impossible, you may want to insert a wedge between the box spring and mattress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Putting additional pillows may not be that effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Heartburn itself lasts anywhere from a few minutes up to several hours, depending on the main cause. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep in mind GERD is a chronic condition, and its symptoms don\u2019t go away quickly, especially not on their own. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With proper treatment that includes acid suppression, it may take two to eight weeks for the esophagus to start to heal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, not every person is different, and the severity of symptoms may vary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Always remember GERD is a complex condition that requires a proactive approach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Mild GERD cases may go away with lifestyle adjustments only, without medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Moderate and severe symptoms of GERD require a more structured approach that includes a combination of medications and a healthy lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is important to adhere to the doctor\u2019s recommendations to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n GERD is frequent and chronic acid reflux with potentially serious complications when left untreated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The condition has uncomfortable symptoms, but it is manageable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n GERD patients have a lot of options to improve their quality of life and manage their symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have persistent symptoms, you shouldn\u2019t ignore them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead, schedule an appointment to see your doctor and take it from there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re not sure which foods trigger GERD in your case, you may want to keep a food journal.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat is the difference between acid reflux and GERD?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
GERD symptoms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Causes and risk factors<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Complications<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Barrett\u2019s esophagus (precancerous changes to the esophagus) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Esophageal stricture (narrowing of the esophagus) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Esophageal ulcer (open sore in the esophagus)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When to see a doctor<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Diagnosis<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
X-ray of the upper digestive system <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Upper endoscopy <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Esophageal manometry <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ambulatory acid (pH) probe test <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Treatment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Over the counter medications<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Prescription medications <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
H-2 receptor blockers <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Proton pump inhibitor <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Medications for strengthening lower esophageal sphincter <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Nissen fundoplication <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
LINX device <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8 home remedies for relief<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1) Identify your trigger <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2) Eat small meals <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3) Eat a healthier diet <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4) Quit smoking <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5) Try herbal remedies <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6) Don\u2019t wear tight clothes <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7) Avoid lying down after a meal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8) Elevate the head of the bed <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How long does GERD last?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can GERD go away without medication?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Explore More<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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