Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid or, occasionally, bile irritates the food pipe (esophagus). It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally acts as a valve, relaxes abnormally, allowing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.

Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and in some cases, a chronic cough or hoarseness. If left untreated, GERD can lead to more serious complications, such as esophagitis, esophageal strictures, or Barrett's esophagus, which can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Risk factors for GERD include obesity, pregnancy, smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain foods like citrus, chocolate, and spicy foods.

Diagnosis is typically based on clinical evaluation, symptoms, and may be confirmed with tests like endoscopy, pH monitoring, or an esophageal manometry test.

Treatment for GERD involves lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, losing weight, and elevating the head of the bed, along with medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid. In severe cases, surgery may be considered.

GERD is a manageable condition, and with proper treatment, most people can control their symptoms and improve their quality of life.



#GERD #GastroesophagealRefluxDisease #Heartburn #EsophagealHealth #StomachAcid #Reflux #AcidReflux #DigestiveDisorder #Esophagitis #BarrettsEsophagus #PPI #H2Blockers #Endoscopy #LifestyleChanges #ChronicHeartburn #EsophagealStrictures #HealthyEating #iMedix #DigestiveHealth #AcidControl #HealthAwareness