GASTRO-ESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE
(GERD)

Smoking, pressure on the stomach, and certain foods, medications, or medical problems can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter causing reflux. If this happens regularly, it's called GERD. The constantly refluxing acids can irritate the esophagus, causing burning, pressure, or inflammation. Stomach acid may eventually damage the esophagus.

Common Symptoms of GERD may include: frequent heartburn, sour-tasting fluid backing up in your mouth, frequent burping or belching, difficult or painful swallowing, and symptoms that get worse after you eat, when you bend over, or lie down.

During your evaluation, your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and lifestyle and may do some tests. These tests may include xray, blood work, or endoscopy. This helps determine the cause of your symptoms and helps your doctor choose the best treatment for you.

Getting Relief:

Lifestyle Changes and Diet can help relieve many of the symptoms of GERD.

1. Certain foods may increase the acid in your stomach and it is best to avoid them. They include: Coffee, Tea, Cola Drinks, Carbonated Drinks, Fatty or Spicy food, Mint, Chocolate, Onions, and Tomatoes.

2. Smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol can make GERD more likely and make your symptoms worse. Try avoiding both tobacco and alcohol and see if your condition improves.

3. Raise your Head - Reflux is more likely to strike when you are lying down flat. Raise the head of your bed 4-6 inches.

4. Ask your Doctor about medications.

5. Lose extra weight. Too much weight can put pressure on your abdomen and lead to reflux.