GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, a condition in which a person suffers from persistent and/or severe acid reflux.
Acid reflux occurs when your LES (lower esophageal sphincter) becomes weakened or irritated, and allows stomach acid to flow up or ‘reflux’ into your esophagus. Your esophagus isn’t designed to deal with this level of acidity, so you may experience pain or a stinging, burning sensation that often centers around the heart area, which we commonly call heartburn.
You are at higher risk of acid reflux and GERD if you are:
- Pregnant
- Overweight
- A smoker
- An asthmatic
- A diabetic
You’re also at higher risk if you have a hiatal hernia or a connective tissue disorder, such as scleroma.
How is GERD Diagnosed?
Many people experience the occasional bout of acid reflux after eating. It’s usually caused by exerting themselves too quickly after eating, overeating, or eating spicy foods, carbonated drinks or alcohol.
However, if you suffer from acid reflux frequently and/or for a prolonged period, you will be diagnosed with GERD. A GERD diagnosis means you’re at risk of suffering lasting damage to your esophagus, and an increased risk of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer, so symptoms should not be ignored. Your gastroenterologist will recommend treatments to heal and prevent damage and to alleviate symptoms.
Symptoms of GERD:
- heartburn (a stinging or burning sensation near your heart, although you may feel this sensation anywhere between your stomach and throat)
- chest pain or pain down near your LES
- a sour taste on your tongue or sour liquid at the back of your throat
- the taste of regurgitated food
- dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- dry cough
- hoarseness or sore throat
- feeling as though you have a lump in your throat
What is the Medical Treatment for GERD?
Medication
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your physician may suggest various medications such as PPIs (proton pump inhibitors), H2 blockers or antacids.
Surgery
However, if you have severe and/or persistent acid reflux, or your LES isn’t functioning properly, you may need a surgical procedure. Currently, the primary surgical approach to tackle acid reflux is fundoplication, which is usually done laparoscopically (i.e. through small slits in the abdomen rather than through a large incision).
Types of Fundoplication
Nissen (‘complete’) fundoplication: The upper part of the stomach is wrapped right around the lower end of the esophagus and fixed in place, strengthening the LES.
Toupet fundoplication: The stomach is only partially wrapped around the esophagus, which may be recommended if you also have a motility disorder (a problem with how your esophagus coordinates its contractions).