Overview
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus.
Common Symptoms
- Heartburn (burning sensation in chest)
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Chronic cough
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Sensation of a lump in your throat
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you have:- Chest pain with shortness of breath
- Pain radiating to arm or jaw
- Severe or worsening symptoms
- Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
Diagnosis
- Upper endoscopy: Examines esophagus and stomach
- Ambulatory acid probe test: Measures acid in esophagus for 24 hours
- Esophageal manometry: Measures muscle contractions
- X-ray: Barium swallow to visualize esophagus
Treatment
Lifestyle Modifications
- Maintain healthy weight
- Elevate head of bed 6-8 inches
- Eat smaller meals
- Avoid eating 3 hours before bed
- Quit smoking
- Limit trigger foods (fatty, spicy, acidic, caffeine, alcohol)
Over-the-Counter Medications
- Antacids: Tums, Rolaids - neutralize acid
- H2 blockers: Pepcid, Zantac - reduce acid production
- Proton pump inhibitors: Prilosec OTC - stronger acid reduction
Prescription Medications
- Proton pump inhibitors: Nexium, Prevacid, Protonix
- H2 blockers: Higher dose Pepcid, Tagamet
- Prokinetics: Reglan - helps stomach empty faster
Surgery (Severe Cases)
- Fundoplication
- LINX device implantation