Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Diseases (GERD)

What is Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disease whereby the acid from the stomach flows back (reflux) into the oesophagus (food pipe). The reflux can cause irritation, and even damage the lining of the oesophagus. It can also reach the vocal cords or even flow back into the lungs.

Causes

There is not one sole cause that was determined for Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease. It is usually related to the weak or faulty lower oesophageal sphincter (muscular valve between the stomach and the oesophagus) allowing the stomach acid to flow back.

There are several risk factors that contribute to this condition such as:

Diseases like Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and Scleroderma
Increased production of gastrin, a hormone that regulates the release of stomach acid
Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Use of certain medications

Symptoms

Heartburn is the most common symptom. It is a burning sensation of the chest that spreads from the stomach to the throat. Other symptoms may be present including:

Bitter taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation)
Bloated tummy
Burping
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Hoarseness of voice
Pain and difficulty swallowing
Pain or discomfort in the chest
Persistent cough
Persistent sore throat

Treatment

Treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment may include:

Lifestyle changes for the treatment of mild GERD symptoms including:
- Avoid eating late
- Avoiding food that induces acid reflux
- Eating smaller meals
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quite smoking
- Raising your bed head
- Wearing comfortable clothing to avoid pressure on stomach
Prescription medications for moderate to severe symptoms that do not respond to lifestyle changes

Complications and Related Diseases

Barrett’s Oesophagus characterised by long-lasting GERD and increases the risk of Oesophageal Cancer
Inflammation of the vocal cords
Lung damage including Pulmonary Fibrosis and Bronchiectasis
Stricture (blockage) of the oesophagus caused by scar tissues that develop due to recurrent ulcerations
Ulcers in the oesophagus caused by burning from stomach acid