Most people have experienced a stomach acid backwash or reflux (GERD) from time to time, which is perfectly normal. But what if it happens frequently? Does it cause serious health complications?
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or (GERD) happens when stomach acid runs back into the tube that connects your mouth and stomach frequently (esophagus). The lining of your esophagus may become irritated by this backwash (acid reflux).
Acid reflux is a common condition that occurs occasionally. However, GERD might result from acid reflux if it occurs frequently over time.
Most people can control their GERD symptoms with medication and lifestyle adjustments. Some people may also require surgery to relieve their symptoms, despite the rarity.
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Typical GERD warning signs and symptoms include:
- Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest that typically occurs after eating and may be worse at night or while you’re lying down.
- Vomiting of sour liquids or food is known as backwash.
- Chest discomfort or upper abdominal ache
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Feeling of having a lump in your throat
It’s critical to understand that untreated GERD can cause a variety of issues, such as:
- Erosive esophageal injury
- An injury to the throat
- Esophageal inflammation and narrowing
- Respiratory difficulties
- Esophageal cancer
GERD Awareness Week
National Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Awareness Week is the week following Thanksgiving. Heartburn, bloating, and regurgitation symptoms are frequently brought on by overindulgence. However, you might develop Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease if these symptoms persist frequently while following a typical diet. The amount of reflux you experience makes a difference between normal reflux and GERD. Reflux symptoms that occur a few times a month are entirely normal and probably don’t require any special care beyond the occasional use of over-the-counter drugs, but symptoms that happen frequently or necessitate daily prescription are problematic for GERD.
Treatment
Making lifestyle adjustments or using over-the-counter medications may help you control the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. A doctor might advise surgery, medication, a change in lifestyle, or a combination of these treatments.
If you are overweight or obese, your doctor may advise weight loss, eating dinner two to three hours before bed, and avoiding foods and beverages that aggravate your gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms.
If you have chest discomfort, get emergency medical attention, especially if you also have breathing difficulties, arm or jaw pain, or shortness of breath. These could be heart attack warning signs and symptoms.
Schedule a visit with your physician if you:
- Feel GERD symptoms frequently or severely
- more frequently than twice a week, take over-the-counter medicines for heartburn. Gastroenterology Gastrointestinal
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