Barrett's Esophagus
Contents of this Article
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Having liquids or gas occasionally reflux is considered normal. When it happens frequently, particularly when not trying to belch, and causes other symptoms, then it is considered a medical problem or disease. However, it is not necessarily a serious one or one that requires seeing a physician.
The stomach produces acid and enzymes to digest food, and when this mixture refluxes into the esophagus more frequently than normal or for a longer period of time than normal, it may produce symptoms. These symptoms, often called acid reflux, are usually described by people as heartburn, indigestion, or "gas." The symptoms typically consist of a burning sensation below and behind the lower part of the breastbone or sternum.
Almost everyone has experienced these symptoms at least once, typically as a result of overeating. Other things that provoke * gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms include being overweight - Body Mass Index Calculator & Chart, eating certain types of foods, or being pregnant. In most people, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms may last only a short time and require no treatment at all. More persistent symptoms are often quickly relieved by over-the-counter acid reducing agents such as antacids.
Common Antacids
- Alka Seltzer
- Maalox
- Mylanta
- Pepto Bismol
- Riopan
- Rolaids
Other drugs used to relieve gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms are antisecretory drugs such as histamine2 (H2) blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Common H2 Blockers
- Cimetidine (Tagamet HB)
- Famotidine (Pepcid AC)
- Nizatidine (Axid AR)
- Ranitidine (Zantac 75)
Common Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
- Esomeprazole (Nexium)
- Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
- Omeprazole (Prilosec)
- Pantoprazole (Protonix)
- Rabeprazole (Aciphex)
People who have symptoms frequently should consult a physician. Other diseases can have similar symptoms, and prescription medications in combination with other measures might be needed to reduce reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that is untreated over a long period can lead to complications, such as an ulcer in the esophagus that could cause bleeding. Another common complication is scar tissue that blocks the movement of swallowed food and drink through the esophagus; this condition is called stricture.
Esophageal reflux may also cause certain less common symptoms, such as hoarseness or chronic (lasting a long time) cough, and sometimes provokes conditions such as asthma. While most patients find that lifestyle modifications and acid-blocking drugs relieve their symptoms, doctors occasionally recommend surgery. Overall, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common medical conditions. Some 20 percent of the population can be affected over a lifetime.
Definitions For This Page - In Alphabetical Order
* Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Pronounced - GAH-stroh-eh-SAW-fuh-JEE-ul REE-fluks duh-zeez
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is the flow of the stomach's contents back up into the esophagus. Happens when the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach (the lower esophageal sphincter) is weak or relaxes when it shouldn't. May cause esophagitis. Also called esophageal reflux or reflux esophagitis. More about GERD.
Back To Top
References:
digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/barretts/index.htm
|