GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease often referred toa GERD or acid reflux is very common in America. Approximately 30-40 million people have symptoms of varying frequency. Common symtoms include heartburn, regurgitation, bitter taste in the mouth and belching. When these are noticable 2 or more times a week a definitive diagnosis of GERD can be made.

GERD also may prevent in an atypical fashionand involve other organs. Mouth sores, dental decay, hoarseness, sore throat, and chronic cough can all be caused by GERD. Chest pain caused by GERD is often indistinguishable from that caused by heart disease. Sleep apnea, insomnia, and chronic fatigue have all been known to be associated with chronic GERD. Studies have shown that 20-25 percent of adults with asthma or chronic cough have GERD at the root of their problem.

Often thought of as a condition of aging we know that GERD affects people of all ages. It is when the symptoms have been present for 5 or more years that we need to be concerned. The most common type of esophageal cancer is caused by GERD. After 5 years of exposure to acid the lining of the esophagus may change to a premalignant condition known as Barrett’s Esophagus. It is only by direct examination of the esophagus through endoscopy that Barrett’s can be detected. The examination is simple and safe and can be explained in detail by your gastroenterologist. The good news is that greater than 95% of all patients with GERD can be treated with safe and effective medications.