The Answered Patient: Understanding GERD (Reflux Disease)

Most people experience heartburn every now and then. But if you suffer from persistent heartburn, it could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.

In this episode of 'Say Ahh!' we'll take a close look at GERD, including:

• Causes and symptoms
• The biology of acid reflux
• Diagnosis
• Treatment tips

Despite the name, heartburn actually has nothing to do with the heart. The term refers to the distinctive painful sensation that can sometimes be felt in the chest, neck, and throat after a large meal, or when eating just before going to bed.

Heartburn is caused by acid reflux, which occurs when gastric juice -- the fluid that's used to break down food in the stomach -- escapes and 'refluxes,' or flows back into the esophagus.

In most people, acid reflux occurs only rarely. But for people with GERD, it happens much more frequently, often several times a week. That's because in those patients, the lower esophageal sphincter, which forms a barrier between the stomach and the esophagus, doesn't function properly, and is unable to keep a tight seal.

Over time, repeated acid reflux can cause serious damage to the esophagus, including painful irritation, bleeding, ulcers, and scarring. In a small number of cases, GERD can lead to esophageal cancer.

Usually, a history of the severity and frequency of your heartburn will be enough for a doctor to make a diagnosis. Some doctors may also recommend a therapeutic drug trial, in which a patient takes a full course of GERD medication to see if the heartburn subsides.

If you've been diagnosed with GERD, there are a number of safe and effective treatment options available -- from lifestyle changes to drug therapies -- which can help you live a normal life and continue eating most of the foods you enjoy.

To find out more about managing gastroesophageal reflux disease, be sure to watch our episode, "Treating GERD."

For more information, click the links below:

• Heartburn
• Antacids and Acid Reducers
• Barrett's Esophagus

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