Acid Reflux - GERD
Depending on your background, the term “GERD” may or may not be familiar to you. GERD is an acronym that stands for Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease. It is often called "reflux," "reflux esophagitis," or sometimes inaccurately referred to as "hiatus hernia." Gastro-esophageal-reflux is the term used to describe a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.
Gastro-esophageal-reflux is a normal phenomenon. It typically occurs transiently after eating. Gastro-esophageal-reflux-disease (GERD) is the condition where degree of exposure of esophageal mucosa to gastric contents is greater than normal. The most common symptom is heartburn but patients may have other symptoms as well.
Almost everyone experiences gastro-esophageal-reflux at some time. The usual symptom is heartburn, an uncomfortable burning sensation behind the breastbone, most commonly occurring after a meal. In some individuals reflux is frequent or severe enough to cause more significant problems and to be considered a disease. When it reaches that point, it is a medical condition called GERD. So GERD isn’t just “something you ate.” It’s a real disease and a real problem for millions of sufferers.
This animation from www.gerd.com illustrates the process that takes place when both ends of gastro-esophageal-reflux occurs and with esophageal endoscopy images showing a variety of conditions that have occurred as a result.
Treatment for GERD: Treatment options will vary with the symptoms, but can generally be broken down into three main categories:
- Lifestyle Changes
- Medication
- Surgery
