What Is GERD? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a chronic medical condition affecting millions of people worldwide. To handle the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease effectively, it is essential to understand what this disease is and what its causes are. This article explains the causes of GERD and its symptoms and gives an overview of available treatment options.

What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

So, what is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease? Occasionally, the stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus. It may result in discomfort in your esophagus, which is a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. While occasional acid reflux is not a big concern, the symptoms of GERD can be really harsh and cause complications.

What Causes Gastroesophageal Reflux

The key to effective treatment is identifying the underlying cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD is usually a consequence of chronic acid reflux left untreated, which causes the lower esophageal sphincter not to close properly. When the lower esophageal sphincter fails to close properly, the stomach acid rises to the esophagus, causing pain and other related symptoms. Obesity, pregnancy, smoking, and even taking medications like asthma medications and many others can also be attributing causes of GERD.

What Are GERD Symptoms and How Do You Recognize Them?

Acid reflux symptoms vary between individuals and may not always be apparent. The most commonly recognized symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, especially accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pains, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, and difficulty when swallowing food, coupled with a lump in the throat. Some patients may experience other common symptoms of GERD, including laryngitis or a dry cough throughout the year, disturbed sleep, or even bronchial asthma. The longer the period of non-treatment, the more intense and frequent the GERD symptoms are.

GERD Treatment in Marietta at WellStar

If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, WellStar provides GERD treatment in Marietta tailored to your needs. Our highly trained professional staff is dedicated to empowering you with ways to control your symptoms so you can live a more fulfilling life. From lifestyle advice to medication and other advanced interventions, WellStar has the necessary resources and expertise to help guide you through the journey to regaining your health. Don’t wait another day. Contact WellStar today and learn about your options for effective GERD treatment that works and takes back control of your health today.