What is GERD?GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a digestive disorder. It's caused when gastric acid from your stomach flows back up into your food pipe (esophagus). Show
Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. What causes GERD?GERD happens when gastric acid from your stomach backs up into your food pipe (esophagus). A muscle at the bottom of the esophagus opens to let food from the bottom of the esophagus into the stomach. And it closes to keep food in the stomach. This muscle is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). When your LES relaxes too often or for too long, acid backs up into your esophagus. This causes heartburn and may cause damage. Some lifestyle issues that can cause GERD may include:
Some health problems that may cause heartburn, or make it more likely, may include:
Who is at risk for GERD?You may be more at risk for GERD if you:
What are the symptoms of GERD?Heartburn, also called acid indigestion, or acid reflux, is the most common symptom of GERD. Heartburn is a burning chest pain that starts behind your breastbone and moves up to your neck and throat. It can last as long as 2 hours. It often feels worse after you eat. Lying down or bending over can also cause heartburn. Another common symptom of GERD is bringing swallowed food up again to the mouth (regurgitation). Some people can have trouble swallowing. Heartburn is not a GERD symptom for most children younger than 12 years old, and for some adults. They may have a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing instead. Each person’s symptoms may vary. GERD symptoms can be caused by other health problems. Always see your healthcare provider to be sure. How is GERD diagnosed?To see if you have GERD, your healthcare provider will give you a physical exam and ask about your past health. Some people with typical symptoms may be treated without more testing. Other tests for GERD may include:
How is GERD treated?Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. In many cases making diet and lifestyle changes can help reduce GERD symptoms. Always check with your healthcare provider before making any changes. If you have GERD, be careful about what you eat and drink. Don’t have too much of these:
You should also:
Check any medicines you are taking. Some may cause problems with the lining of your stomach or esophagus. You may also want to talk with your healthcare provider about:
What are possible complications of GERD?If GERD is not treated, it can lead to other health problems. These may include:
What can I do to prevent GERD?Some of the same diet and lifestyle changes that are used to treat GERD can also help to prevent it. Living with GERDYour healthcare provider will give you advice on how to manage your GERD symptoms. In most cases you will need to make some diet and lifestyle changes so that GERD pain won’t get in the way of your normal activities. When should I call my healthcare provider?Call your healthcare provider if:
Call 911Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if any of these occur:
Key points about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
What is the main cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease?Eating large meals or eating late at night. Eating certain foods (triggers) such as fatty or fried foods. Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol or coffee. Taking certain medications, such as aspirin.
Who is most likely to suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease?Q:Who is most likely to suffer from GERD? A:Obesity, pregnancy and smoking are all factors that contribute to the development of GERD.
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