1 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently moves back into the esophagus. This backflow of stomach acid affects the esophagus lining, thus affecting digestion. GERD is different from acid reflux because it happens more often and is also more severe. Symptoms GERD presents itself through a variety of symptoms. The most common are heartburn soon after eating. The heartburn might be more severe at night. GERD also feels like chest pain. When one has GERD, the contents of the stomach are regurgitated back to the esophagus soon after eating. Due to the backwash of the acid, it is difficult to swallow. GERD also causes one to feel like they have a lump in the throat. In some cases, GERD leads to a chronic cough or asthma.
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2 Causes The sphincter muscle is located at the base of the esophagus. It contracts and relaxes when one swallows food, allowing food into the stomach. When acid reflux occurs frequently, the sphincter muscle weakens and the esophageal lining is corroded. This allows the contents of the stomach, which includes stomach acid and juices, to rise up to the esophagus. Treatment GERD symptoms severely affect the quality of life, and treatment is essential to offer relief. The doctor might recommend lifestyle changes such as; losing excess weight, controlling food portions, stress control, diet change, and quitting smoking. Medical treatment includes the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids and H2 receptor blockers (Yahya, 2019). When the condition is at a very advanced stage, surgery might be recommended. H2 receptor blockers reduce acid production, while antacids contain a base to counter the acid that flows back to the esophagus and relieve the symptoms of heartburn. Proton pump inhibitors prevent certain stomach cells from releasing acid.
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References Vaezi, M.F. (2015). Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Springer. Yahya, A. I. (2019). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - Theory and Research. IntechOpen.