Acid reflux is a common digestive condition in which acid from the stomach travels up your esophagus, irritating its lining. It usually occurs when the muscles at the base of your stomach fail to function properly and permit acid to reach the esophagus. Due to its sensitive lining, the esophagus is not equipped to handle contact with the acid, which is why acid reflux is often characterized by heartburn or a burning sensation. GERD is a common type of acid reflux. Below, we review its causes, complications, symptoms, and possible treatments as offered by a Dallas acid reflux specialist.
What Is GERD?
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition that results from repeated acid refluxes. It occurs when acid from the stomach backwashes into the esophagus too many times, significantly aggravating its tissue lining. You may have GERD if you experience the following symptoms:
- Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing
- Pain in the chest or upper abdominal area
- Regurgitation or backwash of a sour liquid or food
- A feeling of having a lump in your throat
- Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that appears after you eat and worsens at night or when you sleep.
You may also experience nighttime acid reflux, which is usually characterized by vocal cord inflammation, an ongoing cough, and worsened or new asthma.
You can usually manage GERD symptoms at home with medications and lifestyle changes. However, some rare situations may call for surgery. Call 911 if your heartburn is accompanied by arm or jaw pain, shortness of breath, or chest pain – you may be having a heart attack.
You should also consult your doctor if your GERD symptoms are frequent and severe are require you to take heartburn medication more than twice a week.
What Causes GERD?
Your esophagus features a circular band of muscle at its bottom called the lower esophageal sphincter. This muscle relaxes when you swallow to allow liquids and food to enter your stomach before closing again. In the event the muscle weakens or fails to close properly, it can allow stomach acid to enter your esophagus. If this happens constantly, the acid can irritate your esophagus lining, leading to inflammation and, ultimately, GERD. Several factors can also increase your GERD risk. They include:
- Delayed stomach emptying
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Disorders of the connective tissue like scleroderma
How Is GERD Treated?
The recurrent chronic inflammation of the esophagus can lead to several serious complications. It can inflame (esophagitis) or narrow (esophageal stricture) the esophagus or cause pre-cancerous changes to its structure. Also called Barrett’s esophagus, this condition can increase your risk of esophageal cancer. This is why getting treatment for frequent or severe acid reflux is crucial.
When you visit your doctor for GERD treatment, they will usually start your regimen with multiple lifestyle changes and prescription medications like foaming agents, H2 receptor blockers, and antacids. The lifestyle changes are designed to help you identify and avoid triggers, which could be foods, beverages, or habits. If your symptoms fail to improve, your doctor may recommend surgery.
Conclusion
If left untreated, GERD can have severe repercussions on your digestive health. You should never ignore ongoing heartburn or severe acid reflux. Instead, contact expert bariatric surgeon Michael Sutker, MD, to discuss your symptoms. Dr. Sutker offers a wide range of acid reflux treatments to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
