What is GERD?

GERD stands for GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease.

Gastroesophageal Reflux is the backflow of acid and food particles that seep out of the stomach and up into the esophagus. This happens when the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is weak or relaxes when it shouldn’t. Also called esophageal reflux or reflux esophagitis.

Almost everyone experiences gastroesophageal reflux at some time, commonly known as heartburn, a painful, burning feeling in the chest, most commonly occurring after a meal. But if you have heartburn on a regular basis, it can lead to damage and scarring in the esophagus.

Frequent heartburn (episodes occurring from several times a week to several times a day) may be associated with a more severe condition known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Heartburn is so common that it often is not associated with a serious disease, like GERD.

People of all ages are susceptible to GERD. GERD may be more common in adults over age 40 but it can occur in infants, in the elderly, and at any age in between. Elderly people with GERD tend to have a more serious condition than younger people.

Sometimes GERD Can Cause Serious Complications

• Erosive Esophagitis is one of the more serious forms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. If left untreated, the acid from the stomach can wear away or erode the lining of your esophagus.
• Inflammation of the esophagus from stomach acid causes bleeding or ulcers.
• Scars from tissue damage can narrow the esophagus and make swallowing difficult.
• Some people develop Barrett’s esophagus, where cells in the esophageal lining take on an abnormal shape and color, which over time can lead to cancer.
• Studies have shown that * asthma, chronic (lasting a long time) cough, and pulmonary fibrosis may be aggravated or even caused by GERD.
• Although acid is a primary factor in damage caused by GERD, other products of the digestive tract, including pepsin and bile, can also be harmful.