We have all have had an occasion where we ate too much, especially something spicy, or got into bed without letting our dinner digest properly. The result is typically a burning sensation similar to heartburn, feeling like we need to burp, or waking up with a sour taste in our mouth. You may even feel like you need to vomit. These are some common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Keep reading to learn more about GERD, its risk factors and more.
What Is GERD?
GERD is not an occasional heartburn problem. GERD occurs frequently, even several times in one week, making it a more chronic condition.
GERD occurs when the valve located at the base of the esophagus is not functioning properly. This valve is called the lower esophageal sphincter, and should securely close after food or drink comes down the esophagus and into the stomach. Sometimes this valve becomes loose, which allows food, liquids, and stomach acids to pass back up into the esophagus and mouth.
When this becomes a frequent or daily problem, it isn’t simply heartburn or acid reflux, these are the symptoms of GERD.
What Are the Risk Factors for GERD?
You are at a higher risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease if you are:
- Overweight
- Over the age of 40
- Smoke
- Live a sedentary lifestyle
- Pregnant
How to Relieve GERD Symptoms
You can reduce the symptoms by making some lifestyle changes, including:
- Eat smaller meals
- Wait at least several hours before laying down
- Stop smoking
- Lose weight
- Begin an exercise regimen
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes
- Avoid some food triggers like spicy foods, chocolate, tomato dishes, fried foods, coffee, alcohol, and peppermint. Also, become aware of your triggers.
- Sleep with your head inclined several inches. Wedge pillows are becoming more widely available to purchase.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, see a medical professional for treatment options, as complications can occur when stomach acids frequently invade your esophagus and mouth.
What Complications Can Come From GERD?
If you deal with the symptoms of GERD several nights a week, make an appointment with an experienced physician at Dignity Health Medical Group for an evaluation. Not addressing your symptoms can lead to some serious complications including:
Barrett’s Esophagus
All the accumulated acid in your esophagus can lead to changes in the lining. Abnormal cells develop in the lining and become a risk for esophageal cancer.
Esophagitis
This is an inflammation of the lining of the esophagus, causing it to swell, which makes swallowing painful and difficult.
Esophageal Ulcers
These are sores on the lining of the esophagus leading to chest pain, trouble swallowing, and nausea. Your physician will prescribe meds to ease these symptoms.
Esophageal Stricture
Scar tissue builds up over time causing a narrowing of the esophagus. This causes difficulty swallowing and dehydration and can become quite serious if not treated.
Cancer
Having GERD increases your chance of getting cancer with symptoms that do not appear until later stages.
Dignity Health Medical Group in Arizona offers treatment options to improve your symptoms and heal any problems in your esophagus before they lead to serious complications.
Don’t hesitate if you are having symptoms of GERD several nights a week. Contact Dignity Health Medical Group for an evaluation and to learn your treatment options. Call our Chandler office at (602) 582-5233 or Gilbert office at (480) 728-6590, or request an appointment at either location through our secure online form.
Sources: 10 Signs You Have Acid Reflux – Throat, Stomach, Chest Symptoms (prevention.com)
GERD Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore | Northwestern Medicine
