Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

When someone suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, the ring of muscles at the lower end of the esophagus does not tighten properly. This causes the acid from the stomach to leak back into the esophagus. The condition can be quite painful, and is characterized by a burning sensation under the sternum radiating up toward the throat. In some cases symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease mimic those of a heart attack or angina.

The acid from the stomach can cause damage to the sensitive tissue of the esophagus. In rare instances, GERD can cause a change to the esophageal tissue called Barrett’s esophagus, which can lead to cancer.

People of all ages, genders and ethnicities can develop GERD. Pregnant women and people who are overweight have a higher chance of getting GERD because their digestive systems are under more pressure from added weight.

If you have GERD, in most cases your condition can be treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Some tips for managing GERD:

• Limit high fat and spicy foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol, as these can increase irritation.

• Eat your last meal of the day no less than three hours before bedtime.

• Raise the head of your bed so that gravity helps keep acids from traveling up out of your stomach.

• Wear clothing that is loose around the middle to reduce pressure on your digestive system.

• If you are overweight, losing weight can help.

• If you smoke, quit.

In cases where dietary and lifestyle changes do not help, medical intervention is often required. Medical treatment ranges from medications through to surgical repair of the damaged lower esophageal sphincter.

Surgical treatment is known as fundoplication, where a part of the stomach is wound around the lower esophageal sphincter in order to tighten it. Fundoplication may be performed using laparoscopic minimally invasive techniques or using new transoral methods where the repair is made through the patient’s mouth.