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Dousing the fire of GERD

If you have an esophagus, you’ve almost certainly experienced the occasional bout of heartburn — that painful sensation that occurs when highly acidic stomach juices splash up into the tube that connects your mouth and stomach. It’s no fun, but the discomfort quickly passes. But if you have frequent heartburn — called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD — you know it can be a life-altering misery. People with GERD can experience such sharp pain it’s like they’re being stabbed, says Juan Carlos Bucobo, MD, vice president of gastroenterology at Northwell Health. They may wake in the middle of the night feeling like they’re drowning, or have coughing fits because of the reflux at the back of…

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 What doctors wish patients knew about GERD

Imagine this: After every meal, you experience discomfort with a persistent burning feeling that lingers after the last bite of food. This is the reality for millions of people suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Often dismissed as mere heartburn, GERD is a chronic condition that affects the quality of life for many. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options are key.

Articles of Interest

GERD and LPR

During gastroesophageal reflux, the contents of the stomach and upper digestive tract may reflux all the way up the esophagus, beyond the upper esophageal sphincter (a ring of muscle at the top of the esophagus), and into the back of the throat and possibly the back of the nasal airway. This is known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), which can affect anyone.

Is acid reflux really caused by acid?

Recent research has now raised another possible cause for GERD—that gastric reflux doesn’t damage esophageal epithelial cells directly, but stimulates them to secrete cytokines that attract immune cells, which is what ultimately damages the esophageal mucosa.

Is GERD the Same Thing As Heartburn?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn are easy to confuse. Maybe you’ve used the terms interchangeably. However, heartburn is a symptom of GERD. And it is not the only symptom, nor is it a necessary one to receive a diagnosis.

Is Your Heartburn Due to GERD or NERD?

Nearly half of the U.S. population has symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) at least once a month, and 20% have them weekly. But many of them don't get relief from standard acid-reducing medications, and don't have telltale damage to their esophagus.

Managing GERD: Foods to Avoid and Foods to Consider

A suitable diet is the key to managing gastroesophageal reflux disease, a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. It is often referred to as GERD and it can cause serious—even fatal—damage to the esophagus, the muscular tube through which food passes after it leaves the mouth. This article will look at the food intake and techniques to be adhered to in order to get manage GERD.

Mythbusters vs. GERD: Debunking Common Beliefs and Misinformation

Myth #1 - Some people think that GERD is simply prolonged heartburn Actually, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a medical condition where the backflow of stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus and causes damage to the body over time. GERD occurs chronically, unlike acid reflux, which only surfaces every once in a while (see what I did there?). GERD can also lead to other health issues, including chronic cough, dental problems, and even increased asthma symptoms. It is important to talk with a healthcare professional to receive an official diagnosis of GERD.

Natural remedy for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

One easy option is to raise the head end of your bed to relieve the symptoms that may occur, particularly at night. Also, you should stop smoking and avoid spicy foods and chocolate - these increase the production of gastric acid that causes your symptoms. Being overweight also aggravates the condition and therefore the longer-term aims should include a weight-loss plan. All these measures may reduce the need for medication, but are unlikely to cure the problem.

Review article: oesophageal complications and consequences of persistent gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

The long-term consequences and complications of persistent gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are often difficult to identify and may go undiagnosed for many years.

The ABCs of GERD

The most common symptom of GERD is regular heartburn, a painful, burning feeling in the middle of your chest, specifically behind your breastbone and in the middle of your abdomen. Not all adults with GERD have heartburn. Other common GERD symptoms include:

Unusual Symptoms and GERD

Chronic heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. Acid regurgitation (refluxed material into the mouth) is another common symptom. But numerous unusual symptoms other than heartburn may be associated with GERD.

What Doctors Don't Tell You About Gerd

With so many clinical trials and medical research spent on the study of GERD, its pathophysiological cause is still undetermined. It has been established however that the LES is a primary problem area in almost all cases of GERD, where the LES loses its functional use while the rest of the esophageal structures remain purposeful. The development of anatomical anomalies, such as a hernia can also lead to the development of GERD. When the upper part of the stomach muscle and LES contract above the diaphragm, the musculature separates the stomach from the chest which is what causes a hiatal hernia.

When Common Acid Indigestion Takes You Beyond the Pink

Most people often dismiss heartburn as common and trivial, an ailment to be treated with a grimace and a glug of thick, chalky pink liquid. But, while acid reflux is very common, it is far from insignificant.

Resources

10 GERD Symptoms Not Recognized by Most Acid Reflux Sufferers

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can have a variety of symptoms we do not typically associate with acid reflux. GERD is caused by a weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscular valve that separates the stomach from the esophagus. When functioning properly, the LES opens only to allow food and liquids to enter the stomach. However, a loose LES can allow gastric acid to backflow into the esophagus, and heartburn is only one of many symptoms.

About GERD

While diet does not cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), reflux and its most frequent complaint of heartburn can be aggravated by foods. Certain medications can aggravate symptoms. Disclose the use of any medications to your physician.

GERD/Acid Reflux Support Group

Empowering GERD patients & advocates to spread awareness, share resources and connect with support!

GERDHelp.com

The Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) is a surgical procedure performed through the mouth and without incisions; it employs the EsophyX device to create an esophagogastric fundoplication that is up to 270° and 3cm in length. TIF fills the treatment gap between medical therapy and more invasive surgical fundoplication. Because TIF is performed entirely through the patient’s mouth (transorally), there are no abdominal incisions and subsequently, no scars from the procedure.

LINX™ Reflux Management System

When left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications including stricture, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer. The LINX® Reflux Management System is designed to keep the weak esophageal sphincter closed to prevent reflux.

Reflux Gourmet

We at Reflux Gourmet are dedicated to helping those who suffer by developing all natural treatments. We believe products should be effective, convenient, and – above all else – safe. And tasty!

EndoGastric Solutions

The TIF 2.0® (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication) procedure is an advanced endoscopic treatment that reconstructs the gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV)—targeting the root anatomical cause of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). By restoring the natural antireflux barrier, TIF 2.0 offers a physiological solution without the need for external incisions or dissection.

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, affects an estimated 5–7% of the global population – men, women, and children. Although common, the disease is often unrecognized – its symptoms misunderstood. This is unfortunate because GERD is generally a treatable disease, though serious complications can result if it is not treated properly.

StatPearls

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which there is the retrograde flow of gastric contents into the esophagus or beyond into the oral cavity, larynx, or lungs, resulting in esophagitis and inflammation of other affected mucosal surfaces. This condition is considered one of the most common diseases encountered by gastroenterologists and primary care clinicians. Risk factors for GERD include having a hiatus hernia, age greater than 50, body mass index >30, smoking and alcohol use, dietary factors such as fatty, spicy, and acidic foods, and decreased physical activity. Pharmacology that reduces the lower esophageal sphincter pressure, including nitrates, calcium channel blocker agents, and anticholinergics, can also contribute to gastroesophageal reflux.