Gastroesophageal reflux disease is usually referred to as GERD. It is a digestive disorder that affects the ring around the lower esophagus that connects to the stomach. Stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and irritates it. It can lead to indigestion and acid reflux. There are treatments that can help with the disorder and relieve the symptoms of GERD.
GERD is caused by acid reflux. When the stomach acids come back into the esophagus, the sphincter around the esophagus that closes to keep the stomach acids in the stomach can become weakened or inflamed and fail to do its job. This allows the acids to flow backward where they can burn the throat and cause other issues.
Symptoms of GERD can vary. Some people only experience mild symptoms, and others experience more severe ones. GERD can be chronic or occasional. The symptoms can mimic those of other diseases and health problems, and many people don’t realize that they have GERD until they see a doctor to complain about the symptoms. These symptoms may include:
Doctors diagnose GERD based on the description of the patient’s symptoms and a physical exam. They may use a variety of diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions and diseases and confirm that GERD is the problem. These tests include:
There are various treatment options for people who suffer from GERD. They are based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. These treatment options include:
Common medical treatment options for acid reflux include the following:
Typically, PPIs and H2 blockers are for individuals diagnosed with GERD. They’re more powerful than traditional antacids and help limit the production of stomach acid.
Once a successful treatment option has been found, the prognosis is good. Even when GERD symptoms are controlled, patients may still experience some occasional indigestion and acid reflux. Medications may need to be changed to help keep the symptoms under control.
This post was last modified on January 20, 2023 11:45 am
A lot of people need prescription meds almost every day, and a good portion of them are even life-saving enough… Read More
Hair loss can be a stressful experience for most individuals, impacting self-esteem and confidence. While there are various treatment options… Read More
Visiting the dentist is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems. Dentistry encompasses a wide range of… Read More
Introduction Did you know that almost 3,56,000 people face an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest every year, and most of them are… Read More
The introduction of automation into biotechnology represents a dramatic change toward more accurate and productive production techniques. There are over… Read More
Blood screenings are essential diagnostic tools that analyse different components of your blood. They play a crucial role in assessing… Read More
The pouty, full-lipped look has become an enduring symbol of allure, beauty, and confidence. Celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Scarlett… Read More
In today's fitness landscape, there's a growing recognition that true health and wellness extend beyond just physical strength and muscle… Read More
In an era where self-care and wellness are paramount, red light therapy emerges as a revolutionary solution, promising a myriad… Read More
Achieving smooth, healthy, radiant skin relies on more than hope alone. A practical understanding of science-backed care principles combined with… Read More