GERD Specialist

What is GERD?

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is also known as acid reflux, acid indigestion, or heartburn.

GERD develops when acid that’s normally safely contained in the stomach finds its way up your esophagus. The acid can do this if the lower esophageal sphincter that seals off the esophagus from the stomach weakens and doesn’t fully close.

Stomach acids are extremely corrosive, and while the stomach lining and esophageal sphincter can withstand the effects, the esophagus can’t, so it becomes inflamed and painful. The burning that gives this condition the name heartburn is due to the acid’s corrosive effect on the lining of the esophagus and doesn’t have anything to do with your heart.

What are the symptoms of GERD?

GERD causes typical symptoms of indigestion, such as:

• Belching and burping
• Sore throat
• Problems swallowing
• Sudden floods of saliva into your mouth
• Hoarse voice
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Inflamed gums
• Nausea

You may also feel as though there’s a blockage in your chest as if something’s stuck in your esophagus. Stomach acid may sometimes rise all the way to your mouth, causing a bitter, unpleasant taste and leading to tooth erosion if it happens frequently.

What causes GERD?

If you have GERD, it’s most likely due to preventable lifestyle factors such as:

• Being overweight or obese
• High-fat diet
• Too much caffeine
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Eating too much rich or spicy food

Pressure from a growing baby can cause expectant moms to develop GERD, and sometimes it can be due to medications you’re taking. The team at Verma Health can pinpoint what’s causing GERD in your case so you can obtain relief and, if necessary, adjust your medications to prevent GERD.

How is GERD treated?

If you only experience mild symptoms of GERD or infrequent attacks of heartburn, the team at Verma Health may recommend a simple course of antacid medication to neutralize the escaped acid and reduce tissue inflammation.

More frequent attacks or severe symptoms might need treatment with medications such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers that reduce the quantity of stomach acid you produce.

One of the most effective ways to manage GERD is to change unhealthy lifestyle habits, for example, losing weight, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol, eating a healthier, low-fat diet, and avoiding triggers like caffeine and spicy food. The team at Verma Health can help you make these changes and keep you healthy while you adjust your lifestyle.

If symptoms of GERD are affecting your well-being, call Verma Health today, or book an appointment using the online tool.