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Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Description

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. When the ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES) becomes weak or relaxes at the wrong time, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. GERD can also lead to complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), ulcers, and precancerous changes in the esophagus.

Symptoms

Here are some common symptoms of GERD:

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and it's always best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Causes

Here are some common causes of GERD:

Risk factors

Here are some common risk factors for GERD:

Complications

Here are some potential complications of GERD:

How to diagnose

Here are some common ways that doctors may diagnose GERD:

How to prevent

Here are some steps you can take to help prevent GERD:

When you need to see a doctor

Here are some signs that you may need to see a doctor for GERD:

Persistent bad breath: if you have persistent bad breath that cannot be attributed to oral hygiene, you should see a doctor as it could be a sign of GERD or other digestive issues

FAQs

Heartburn is a symptom of GERD, but not all people with heartburn have GERD. Heartburn is a feeling of burning in the chest or throat that is caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. GERD is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus on a regular basis.

There is no cure for GERD, but it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the LES or remove a hiatal hernia.

GERD and acid reflux are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Acid reflux is a symptom of GERD, while GERD is a chronic digestive disorder that includes acid reflux as well as other symptoms.

Visit a doctor when you are suffering from GERD!