What Is GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is reflux and regurgitation of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus that is frequent and severe enough to impact daily life. It may even damage the esophagus and in a small percentage of the population may lead to cancer.
While heartburn is a common symptom, many GERD patients also suffer from ‘atypical' symptoms such as sore throat, regurgitation or acid taste in the mouth, chronic cough, laryngitis, dental erosions, discomfort in the ears and nose, and asthma like symptoms caused by the aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs.
How does GERD impact your life?
Pain and discomfort from GERD impacts over 23 million people in the U.S. alone two or more times per week.
- Causes heartburn, chest pain, sore throat and other symptoms
- Nighttime reflux may hinder a good night’s sleep and affect alertness and productivity the next day
- May make certain GERD trigger foods and beverages “off limits”
- Can become a constant nagging concern: “did I take my pills, am I eating too late, am I choosing the right foods….”
- Can cost thousands of dollars annually in medications and lost productivity from work
- Can progress to more serious conditions if left untreated
While some reflux is normal, if you suffer from any symptoms of reflux more than twice a week, you might have GERD. See your doctor for a GERD evaluation.
A normal gastroesophageal valve (GEV) closes to prevent the "reflux" of stomach fluids up into the esophagus, preventing GERD.
