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Total Health

GERD: Fast Facts


Reviewed By:
David Friedel, M.D., AGA

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects 5 to 7 percent of Americans.

  • GERD involves a backup of stomach acid into the esophagus, the tube that moves food from your throat to your stomach.

  • GERD occurs when the valve (sphincter) that closes off the esophagus from the stomach weakens or relaxes and lets in acid and partly digested food.

  • Heartburn is not the same thing as GERD but is a common symptom of this chronic disease.

  • GERD can affect anyone from babies to adults.

  • Children sometimes outgrow GERD, but in adults it is often a lifelong condition.

  • A baby who throws up or is fussy after feeding could be suffering from GERD.

  • GERD is usually painful for two reasons: The backup (reflux) of acid triggers nerves in the esophagus and causes heartburn, and the acid can damage the lining of the esophagus.

  • Stomach ulcers and several other conditions have symptoms similar to those of GERD.

  • Pregnancy can bring on GERD in the expectant mother.

  • GERD is linked to many other conditions, including asthma, hiatal hernias, the connective tissue disease scleroderma and, especially in children, ear and sinus infections.

  • Drinking alcohol and smoking can trigger GERD, as can wearing tight clothing.

  • Many foods can set off GERD, including chocolate, coffee, carbonated drinks, citrus, tomatoes, onions, garlic, mustard, vinegar, spicy foods, sugary foods and fatty foods.

  • Often a doctor can diagnose GERD from a patient's description of symptoms, but sometimes tests are needed to confirm a diagnosis or rule out other conditions.

  • Lifestyle changes including weight loss and improvements in diet and exercise often help relieve GERD.

  • Walking is often recommended, especially after meals.

  • Many medications, such as antacids, can treat GERD.

  • There are several surgical options if lifestyle improvements and drugs don't work.

  • Elevating the head of the bed is a common way to ease symptoms of GERD.

  • Practicing good posture also helps. Sitting up straight allows gravity to aid digestion.

  • See your physician if you have trouble swallowing, painful swallowing, unintentional weight loss, vomiting or spitting up of blood.

 

 

 
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