Overview

Gastroesophageal reflux disease commonly known as GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. This backwash of acid can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause discomfort. Although occasional acid reflux is common, GERD has frequent or severe symptoms that interfere with daily life and can lead to complications if untreated.

Symptoms of GERD

The symptoms of GERD can vary from person to person but typically include:

1. Heartburn

   A burning sensation in the chest or throat, often after eating or while lying down indicates GERD. An attack can last for hours.

2. Reflux/Regurgitation

   Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth, sometimes leading to a feeling of food coming back up. In layman's language we can say that the person vomits out.

3. Chest Pain

   At times, the pain in the chest is mistaken as a heart attack but the easiest way to differentiate is that GERD-related chest pain is usually associated with acid reflux.

4. Difficulty in swallowing (Dysphagia):

   A feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest.

5. Chronic Cough/Sore Throat

   Persistent irritation in the throat due to acid exposure, leading to a cough, hoarseness, or sore throat.

6. Nausea

   Persistent nausea, sometimes leading to vomiting.

7. Bloating and Burping

   Anyone suffering from acute GERD might have severe gas resulting in frequent burping and constant flatulence.

Alarming signals

While occasional heartburn or acid reflux is common, you should consider seeing a healthcare provider if you experience the following:

1. Frequent Symptoms

   If you have acid reflux or heartburn more than twice a week, it could indicate GERD.

2. Worsening Symptoms

   Symptoms that are severe or getting worse over time need to be discussed with the best specialist for GERD. Faridabad has many experts in the field.

3. Difficulty Swallowing

   If swallowing becomes painful or difficult, it may indicate esophageal damage.

4. Unintentional Weight Loss:

   Weight loss without any intent to do so could be a sign of a more serious issue.

5. Persistent Cough

   If the patient feels any hoarseness, or Asthma-like symptoms, we may infer that it could be caused by acid irritating the throat or lungs.

6. Vomiting Blood/ Black Stools

   These are signs of potential internal bleeding and require immediate medical attention.

Treatment Options

There are several treatment approaches for managing GERD, ranging from lifestyle changes to medications as practiced by some of the best doctors for GERD in Faridabad. Some of the commonly suggested practices to GERD patients by the best doctors in Faridabad, at Accord hospital include -

1. Lifestyle Changes
   • Dietary Adjustments
   • Eating Habits
   • Weight Management
   • Quit Smoking
   • Elevate the Bedhead
2. Medications
   • Antacids
   • H2 Blockers
   • Proton Pump Inhibitors
   • Prokinetics
   • Alginates
   • Non Surgical
   • ARMA
3. Surgical Procedures
   • Fundoplication
   • Endoscopic Fundoplication

Conclusion

GERD is a manageable condition that requires timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid further complications. If you frequently experience symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn, especially if they interfere with your quality of life, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. With the right lifestyle adjustments, medications, and in some cases, surgery, GERD symptoms can be controlled, improving your overall well-being.