Understanding GERD: What it is and how it impacts your health

What is GERD?

GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. It is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the food pipe. This backflow is called acid reflux. In the United States, millions of people experience GERD each year. While occasional heartburn is normal, GERD happens often and can affect your daily life. According to the CDC, GERD can lead to more serious health problems if not treated.

Common Symptoms of GERD

Many people with GERD notice symptoms that can be mild or severe. For example, you may feel a burning pain in your chest. This is called heartburn. Other symptoms include:

Regurgitation (food or sour liquid coming back up)

Chest pain, especially after eating

Trouble swallowing

Feeling like you have a lump in your throat

Chronic cough or sore throat

Hoarseness or voice changes

Bad breath

Sometimes, GERD symptoms can feel like other health issues. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your body.

Causes and Risk Factors

GERD happens when the muscle at the end of your food pipe does not close properly. As a result, stomach acid can move up into your throat. Several factors can increase your risk of GERD, such as:

Being overweight or obese

Eating large meals or lying down after eating

Smoking

Pregnancy

Drinking alcohol, coffee, or carbonated drinks

Taking certain medicines, like painkillers or asthma drugs

Eating spicy, fatty, or fried foods

Because these risk factors are common, many people can develop GERD at some point in their lives.

How GERD is Diagnosed

If you have GERD symptoms, your doctor may ask about your health history. Next, they may do a physical exam. Sometimes, tests are needed to confirm GERD. These tests may include:

Upper endoscopy (a thin tube with a camera looks at your food pipe)

pH monitoring (measures acid in your food pipe)

X-rays with a special liquid to see your digestive tract

With these tests, doctors can find out how GERD affects your health and plan the best treatment.

Treatment Options for GERD

There are many ways to treat GERD. Your doctor may suggest:

Over-the-counter antacids to reduce acid

Medicines that lower acid production (like proton pump inhibitors)

Prescription drugs for severe symptoms

Surgery, in rare cases, if other treatments do not help

Because each person is different, your doctor will help you choose the best acid reflux treatment for your needs.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing GERD

In addition to medicine, simple changes can help manage GERD naturally. For example, you can:

Eat smaller meals more often

Avoid lying down right after eating

Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches

Lose weight if needed

Wear loose-fitting clothes

Quit smoking

Limit spicy, fatty, or acidic foods

Cut back on alcohol and caffeine

Because these steps are easy to follow, many people find relief from GERD symptoms.

Preventing GERD

While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk. For instance, you can:

Maintain a healthy weight

Eat slowly and chew food well

Stay upright for at least two hours after meals

Avoid foods and drinks that trigger symptoms

Manage stress with relaxation techniques

By making these changes, you can help prevent GERD and protect your health.

When to See a Doctor

If you have GERD symptoms more than twice a week, see a doctor. Also, seek help if you have trouble swallowing, chest pain, or weight loss. These could be signs of a more serious problem. Early treatment can prevent long-term damage to your food pipe. According to the CDC, untreated GERD can lead to ulcers or even cancer in rare cases.

For personalized advice on GERD, consult a gastroenterologist at LIGG Hospital. They can help you find the best way to manage your symptoms and protect your health.