We have all have had an occasion where we ate too much, ate too much of a spicy dish, or got into bed without letting our dinner digest properly. The result is typically a burning sensation like 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 (GERD). GERD can be serious, so keep reading to learn more.
What Is GERD?
GERD is not an occasional heartburn problem. GERD occurs frequently, even several times in one week, making a more chronic condition.
GERD occurs when the valve located at the base of the esophagus is not functioning properly. This valve, called the lower esophageal sphincter, 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 into our 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 to develop gastroesophageal reflux disease if you are:
Overweight- Over the age of 40
- Smoke
- Live a sedentary lifestyle
- Pregnant
How to Mitigate 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. Become aware of your personal triggers.
- Sleep with your head inclined several inches. There are wedge pillows you can purchase.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, be sure to see a medical professional for treatment options, as complications can occur when stomach acids frequently invade your esophagus and mouth
What Are Complications From GERD?
If you deal with the symptoms of GERD several nights a week, and if you suspect you may have GERD, make an appointment with an experienced physician like Schwarz & Ammirati Gastroenterology for an evaluation. Not addressing your symptoms can lead to some serious complications.
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. Schwarz & Ammirati Gastroenterology will prescribe meds to ease these symptoms.
Esophageal Stricture
Scar tissue builds up overtime 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.
Schwarz & Ammirati Gastroenterology in New York, NY offers treatment options to improve your symptoms and heal any problems in your esophagus before they become a serious complication.
Schedule a GERD Consultation in New York, NY
Don’t procrastinate if you are having symptoms of GERD several nights a week. Contact Schwarz & Ammirati Gastroenterology at (212) 472-4802 for an evaluation and treatment options.
Sources: 10 Signs You Have Acid Reflux – Throat, Stomach, Chest Symptoms (prevention.com)
GERD Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore | Northwestern Medicine
