Understanding Acid Reflux & GERD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are similar conditions with overlapping symptoms but differ in severity. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid moves into the esophagus causing a burning sensation, or heartburn, felt in the lower chest
Acid reflux is common and can last for a few minutes up to a few hours. However, if acid reflux symptoms are persistent, two or more times a week could be an indication of GERD.
Symptoms
Persistent heartburn behind your breastbone is the most common GERD symptom, which often includes:
- Burning feeling in the stomach, chest, neck, and throat
- Sour, acidic, or bitter taste at the back of your mouth
- Regurgitation of food or liquid
Other Symptoms
Besides heartburn, noticeable symptoms may include:
- Nausea
- Bad breath
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Vomiting
- Worn tooth enamel
- Sleep issues
- Asthma
- Laryngitis
Causes
GERD affects 15-30% of the United States population, and anyone can develop the condition. The most noticeable indicator of GERD is persistent acid reflux, often due to an issue with the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the circular muscle band located at the end of your esophagus.
Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can make you more likely to develop GERD:
- Overweight or obesity
- Connective tissue diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or lupus
- Anxiety or stress
- Pregnancy
- Asthma
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Lifestyle and Diet
Lifestyle and dietary factors can affect the severity of GERD:
- Certain foods, such as fatty or fried, spicy, and acidic fruits
- Certain liquids, such as coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks
- Consuming large meals
- Eating right before bed or laying down
- Smoking or regularly exposed to secondhand smoke
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen
Treatments
Left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications, such as Esophagitis, Esophageal stricture, and Barrett’s esophagus. Fortunately, there are several treatments available to those experiencing symptoms more than twice a week.
Lifestyle Adjustments
In some cases, minor lifestyle adjustments and home remedies have been shown to relieve GERD symptoms:
- Breathing exercises
- Avoid food and liquid triggers
- Exercise and weight moderation
- Stop smoking
- Avoid big, heavy meals before bed
- Elevate your head while sleeping
Medication
You may need to consult a doctor if lifestyle changes haven’t worked. Prescriptions medications may be available to manage GERD and acid reflux:
Corrective Procedures
In some cases, GERD can be long-lasting and require a procedure to control your symptoms:
- Fundoplication
- Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF):
- Stretta procedure
- LINX surgery
Consult an Expert
Our experts at Wellstar Georgia offer patients a higher level of care. If you suffer from GERD, contact our healthcare professionals for a consultation to discuss your symptoms. To learn more about how we can help, get in touch today.