Acid Reflux - GERD
What is Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease? (GERD)
Also sometimes called acid reflux, is a common digestive order. It happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, this can cause irritation. GERD is not usually dangerous but can be uncomfortable. If not controlled, it can damage the inside of the esophagus.
How is GERD diagnosed?
- GERD is diagnosed based on your symptoms or by taking medicine to see if your symptoms improve
- Your doctor may need to look inside of your esophagus via endoscopy to check for problems such as hiatal hernia
What are the risks involved?
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Being overweight
- Eating certain foods (fatty or fried foods, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, citrus fruits)
- Drinking certain drinks (juices, carbonated drinks like soda)
- Lying down after eating
What are the warning signs of GERD?
The most common symptoms of GERD are:
- Heartburn or regurgitation
- Chest pain, hoarseness and wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
How is GERD treated?
The main curative treatment for adenoid hypertrophy is surgery. Medical treatment with topical nasal steroid spray can be used, but it is not curative and takes a long time.
What is Adenoidectomy?
Lifestyle changes can help improve symptoms. These changes include:
- Avoiding foods or drinks that may cause GERD symptoms
- Not lying down for three hours after meals and raising your head during sleep
- Quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol
Other treatments for GERD include:
- Over-the-counter antacids
- H2 blockers, which inhibit acid secretion in the stomach
- Proton pump inhibitor which inhibits an enzyme necessary for acid secretion
- Surgery, when other treatments do not relieve symptoms
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