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Understanding GERD: Symptoms, Triggers, and Solutions

Know more than heartburn about GERD. Know its symptoms, triggers, dangers, and treatment to keep your digestive system safe and enhance the long-term health.

Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

Learning GERD: Symptoms, Triggers and the Solution

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is not an occasional heartburn. It is a long-term digestive condition that causes the stomach acid to go back to the esophagus and destroy the esophage lining. Significant numbers of people are living with GERD, yet they do not know how severe it can be in case of not being treated.

This is a guide to GERD; its definition, symptoms, etiology and management.

GERD and Occasional Heartburn

Symptoms of GERD

Who’s at Risk?

Long-Term Complications

If untreated, GERD can lead to:

Solutions for GERD

Medical Options:

Lifestyle Adjustments:

Advanced Solutions:

In the case of severe ones, the surgery or endoscopic therapy can be used to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter.

Conclusion

GERD is not another nuisance, it is something to be taken into consideration. Preventing complications and finding a permanent solution, you can be relieved by detecting symptoms in time and taking appropriate care.

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between GERD and acid reflux?

No. Acid reflux is not chronic and GERD is more severe and chronic compared to reflux.

2. Which foods are the safest to individuals with GERD?

Proteins that are lean, oatmeal, bananas, melons, rice, and non-citrus vegetables generally do not present any problems.

3. Can stress make GERD worse?

Yes. Stress may promote the production of acid and aggravate the symptoms of a reflux. It may be beneficial to use relaxation methods.

4. Do I need surgery for GERD?

The majority of patients treat GERD using drugs and food. Only severe cases which are not responsive are subject to surgery.

5. Is it possible that GERD is long term damaging?

Yes. Unchecked GERD can lead to esophagitis, strictures or Barrett esophagus, which predisposes one to cancer.

6. Does overweight increase the prevalence of GERD?

Yes. Overweight causes a rise in the pressure of the abdomen, which exposes one to the danger of acid reflux and GERD.

7. Can children have GERD?

Yes. GRERD may impact infants, children, and adults but the symptoms may vary according to age.

8. What am I going to do to sleep better with GERD?

Use pillows to raise the head, and do not eat too late and eliminate trigger foods before going to sleep.

9. Is it safe to use PPIs in the long-term to treat GERD?

They may be effective but are to be checked by your doctor in order to prevent side effects with prolonged use.

10. Under what circumstances do I need to see a doctor about GERD?

In case of symptoms more than twice a week, disruption of daily life, worsening they turn, seek help.

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