What Is GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)?

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Overview of GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs due to regular acid reflux—that is, when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth and stomach). Regular acid reflux can, over time, irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause it to become inflamed.

In some people, GERD can present itself as mild acid reflux at least twice a week. In others, the acid reflux may be moderate to severe, and occur at least once a week.

GERD Symptoms

There are a number of signs and symptoms of GERD, including:

• Heartburn (burning sensation in chest), often after eating, elevated at night
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Bad breath or a sour taste in the mouth
• Sensation of a lump in your throat

Acid reflux that occurs at night may also involve these symptoms:

• Chronic cough
• Laryngitis
• New or worsening asthma

What Causes GERD?

GERD is caused by frequent acid reflux, which can occur if the sphincter becomes abnormally relaxed or weak, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.

There are a number of risk factors that can contribute to an increased risk of suffering from GERD. These include:

• Obesity
• Hiatal hernia (pushing of the top of the stomach into the diaphragm)
• Pregnancy
• Connective tissue disorders, like scleroderma
• Delayed stomach emptying

Acid reflux can also be aggravated by certain behaviors, like:

• Smoking
• Eating large meals
• Eating late at night
• Certain foods (those that are fatty or fried, for instance)
• Drinking certain beverages (alcohol or coffee, for example)
• Taking certain medications (like aspirin)

Treatment for GERD

For many, managing their GERD symptoms involves making a few lifestyle changes and taking certain over-the-counter acid reflux medications. For some, however, their GERD symptoms are too strong and may require prescription medications or even surgery to lessen symptoms.

While acid reflux is relatively common and can usually be managed fairly easily, it is still important to be aware of and cautious about these symptoms. If you have chest pain, especially coupled with shortness of breath or pain in the jaw or arm, seek medical attention immediately. While chest pain can simply be a sign of GERD, it can also be a sign of a heart attack.

GERD Complications

Complications of GERD can become quite severe if left untreated, as the esophageal lining is irritated and becomes inflamed. Chronic inflammation of the esophagus can lead to esophageal stricture, or the narrowing of the esophagus due to scar tissue from stomach acid, leading to trouble swallowing.

An esophageal ulcer can also occur, an open sore that can bleed, lead to pain, and also make it difficult to swallow. Acid reflux damage can also lead to Barrett’s esophagus, or precancerous changes to the lower esophagus tissue, which in turn can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Why Have Lawsuits Been Filed?

Lawsuits have been filed over a type of acid reflux and heartburn medication known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

PPIs include drugs like Nexium and Prilosec, and are prescribed to about 15 million Americans each year, though there are also over-the-counter versions available. Unfortunately, PPI medications have been linked with some serious side effects, including an increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease, suffering from kidney failure, or developing stomach cancer.