GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where the acid
in your stomach will back up into your esophagus. This will cause
various symptoms but usually will include pain in the chest.
Sometimes GERD may be described as heartburn or indigestion. The
pain can be so severe that it may feel like a heart attack.
Under normal conditions there is a valve or door from the esophagus to
the stomach called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that will prevent
the backflow of acid from the stomach. If the LES does not work as
well as it should the acid can reflux into the esophagus and can damage the
lining of the esophagus.
The main symptom of GERD is pain but may also include a acid or bitter
taste in the mouth. A cough with no other signs of a cold may be a
sign of reflux. GERD can be worse at night so may cause sleep
problems.
GERD is diagnosed primarily based on the symptoms and a physical exam.
A x-ray test like a barium swallow can help. At times a Upper
Endoscopy may be needed to actually look at the lining of the esophagus.
GERD in itself is usually not dangerous but if left untreated can
increase the possibility of other serious problems.
Lying down soon after eating will make GERD worse so it is good not to
eat late in the evening. It can be helpful to elevate the head of the
bed.
If you are overweight this will push more acid back up the esophagus so
try to loose the excess weight.
Smoking does aggravate the symptoms, so try to stop smoking.
Several over the counted medications (like Pepcid AC, or Prilosec OTC)
can help.
If you are having problems that sound like GERD you can make an
appointment to see a doctor at ARFP, call 227-6363.