⚕️GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

GERD is a chronic digestive condition in which stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus, causing irritation.

I have suffered from GERD for a few years, and it can be very annoying and sometimes embarrasing. Before I knew what it was, I had a bout of acid reflux while eating in a restaurant and had to run to the toilet. To anyone who didn't know, it would have looked like I was being sick because of the food or because I was drunk. It was, however, GERD, and just a reaction to the food I had just swallowed. When it occurred, it was instantaneous, and there was nothing I could do about it.

What is GERD?

GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, a long-term form of acid reflux.

It occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that normally closes after food enters the stomach, doesn’t function properly, allowing acid to flow back into the oesophagus.

Common symptoms include:

• Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest).
• Regurgitation (sour or bitter taste in the mouth).
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat.

Causes and Risk Factors.

Several factors can weaken the LES or increase pressure on the stomach, making reflux more likely:

• Hiatal hernia: when part of the stomach pushes into the chest cavity.
• Obesity: extra abdominal pressure promotes reflux.
• Pregnancy: hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach.
• Dietary triggers: spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, fatty meals.
• Lifestyle habits: smoking, lying down soon after eating, and wearing tight clothing.
• Medications: such as NSAIDs, certain muscle relaxants, or blood pressure drugs.

Treatments for GERD.

Treatment depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms:

Lifestyle and Home Remedies.

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Avoid lying down for 2–3 hours after eating.
• Elevate the head of the bed by 10–20 cm.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake.

Medications.

• Antacids: neutralise stomach acid (short-term relief).
• H2 blockers: reduce acid production (e.g., famotidine).
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): stronger acid suppression (e.g., omeprazole).
• Prokinetics: help the stomach empty faster (less commonly used).

Surgical Options.

• Fundoplication: wrapping the top of the stomach around the LES to strengthen it.
• LINX device: a magnetic ring placed around the LES to prevent reflux.

How to Prevent GERD.

1. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce abdominal pressure.
2. Identify and avoid trigger foods (keep a food diary if needed).
3. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly.
4. Stay upright after meals.
5. Wear loose clothing around the waist.
6. Manage stress, as it can worsen symptoms.

Key Takeaway.

GERD is more than just occasional heartburn; it’s a chronic condition that can damage the oesophagus if untreated. The good news is that most people find relief through lifestyle adjustments and medications, and only a small percentage require surgery. Prevention largely comes down to healthy eating, weight control, and mindful habits.