What is GERD?

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a chronic condition where stomach acid regularly flows back into the esophagus (food pipe), causing frequent heartburn and sometimes damaging the esophagus lining over time.

Symptoms

  • Frequent heartburn (more than twice a week)
  • Regurgitation of food or acid
  • Chest discomfort
  • Chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat pain, in some cases, when acid reaches the throat

Causes

GERD often develops when the muscle between the esophagus and stomach doesn't close properly, allowing acid to flow back up. Risk factors include obesity, a hiatus hernia, smoking, and certain foods.

How is it diagnosed?

GERD is often diagnosed based on symptoms. If symptoms are frequent, severe, or there are warning signs like difficulty swallowing or weight loss, Dr. Gattani may recommend an endoscopy to examine the esophagus and stomach directly and check for any complications.

Treatment

  • Smaller, more frequent meals
  • Avoiding lying down soon after eating
  • Weight management
  • Medicines to reduce stomach acid

Most people respond well to a combination of lifestyle changes and medicine.

Frequently asked questions

No. Occasional heartburn happens to most people now and then. GERD is a more persistent, chronic pattern of reflux that may need ongoing management.

GERD is usually managed rather than cured, though many people achieve good long-term control with lifestyle changes and medicine.

Not always — it's typically recommended for frequent or severe symptoms, or when there are warning signs that need to be checked.