About GERD
More than 60 million people in the U.S. suffer from GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), more commonly known as chronic acid reflux disease, and the number of people suffering GERD-related symptoms two or more times per week may exceed 23 million.1 GERD is a condition where stomach fluids back up, or "reflux," into the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach), exposing the esophagus to gastric acid. It can cause:
- heartburn (the most frequent symptom)
- chest pains
- indigestion
- belching
- bloating
- hoarseness
- excessive throat clearing
- trouble swallowing
- early satiety (leading to weight loss)
- chronic cough
- bad breadth
- asthma
- excessive salivation (waterbrash)
- and other problems.
If left untreated, a constant backup of acid into the esophagus can damage the lining of the esophagus, eroding (burning away) the lining of the esophagus, potentially leading to a precancerous condition. In a small percentage of the population, this can progress to esophageal cancer, a life-threatening disease.
GERD is caused by a defect in the gastroesophageal valve (GEV) at the junction of the lower esophagus and the stomach. A ring of muscle surrounding the gastroesophageal junction, the valve is also referred to as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). When you swallow, that valve opens to allow food to pass, then it closes to prevent stomach fluids from backwashing, or "refluxing," back up into the esophagus. With people suffering from GERD, that valve does not close fully, and in some cases not at all.
Some reflux is normal, but if you suffer any symptoms of reflux more than twice a week, you may have GERD. See your doctor for a GERD evaluation.
GERD is a treatable disease afflicting an estimated 23 million-plus people in the U.S. today, both adults and children.
