GERD is when stomach acid flows into the esophagus, causing heartburn and potential damage to the body. Food aggravates the condition, and the esophageal sphincter may not close properly, allowing acid to escape. GERD affects seven million Americans and can lead to complications such as erosive esophagitis and esophageal ulcer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the excessive flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which can damage the esophagus and other parts of the body. Severe and/or frequent heartburn is the main symptom of this condition. GERD can create harmful complications in the body if left untreated.
The esophagus is used for swallowing, and GERD sufferers experience heartburn as their primary symptom, often right after a meal. Food aggravates this condition, but not necessarily spicy food, although spicy food can make symptoms worse in some patients. Food fills the stomach and the stomach produces more stomach acid. The esophageal sphincter, which is similar to a door and located in the lower part of the esophagus, should remain closed and open only when liquids or foods are swallowed. However, in many patients with GERD, the esophageal sphincter “relaxes” more than it should and lets in excess stomach acid.
Stomach acid flows easily out of the relaxed esophageal sphincter; this escape or flow is called an “ebb”. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid creates a burning sensation. Some people with GERD also experience coughing, wheezing, or asthma due to stomach acid connecting to the lungs. Inflammation of the vocal cords resulting in hoarseness can also be a symptom. Stomach acid is very strong and can erode tooth enamel as some sufferers experience reflux of stomach acid into the mouth.
The United States Department of Health and Human Services estimates that seven million Americans have GERD. Anyone can develop this condition, but it’s most common between ages 40 and 64. Almost everyone will have or has experienced heartburn, but not all heartburn is related to GERD. The term has been used for 20 years but is still not commonly known even by some doctors.
A hiatal hernia is sometimes confused with GERD, but that’s not the same thing. A hiatal hernia is a displaced stomach. Patients with GERD can also have a hiatus hernia if they have complications from the condition, such as erosive esophagitis. Erosive esophagitis is a ruptured esophageal lining. Other complications include esophageal stricture or narrowing of the esophagus and esophageal ulcer.
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