What is GERD?
It is a condition caused by the reflux of secretions from the stomach or duodenum. These substances, including acid, weak acid, alkaline, and gas, can flow back into the esophagus. This can cause inflammation of the esophageal mucosa or the esophagus, or not. This can also lead to changes in quality of life.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux?
Common esophageal symptoms include:
- Heartburn in the epigastric region, which radiates up into the chest. Symptoms are often worse after eating a heavy meal, leaning forward, lifting heavy objects, and lying on your back.
- Sour belching, caused by acid, a sour or bitter liquid, flowing back into the mouth. Severe cases may also cause difficulty swallowing.
Extraesophageal symptoms, which are less common than the first group of symptoms, include:
- Ear, nose, and throat symptoms. If acid reflux rises higher into the esophagus, it can lead to chronic sore throat or hoarseness.
- Respiratory symptoms, often accompanied by asthma or a chronic cough.
- Cardiac symptoms Chest pain not caused by heart disease.
- Oral symptoms, such as tooth decay or bad breath, may occur.
However, these symptoms require treatment and further investigation by a specialist. If no clear cause can be found, then extraesophageal symptoms caused by acid reflux can be considered.
Risk Factors for Acid Reflux
Depending on several factors affecting the digestive system and lifestyle, these factors can increase the risk of acid reflux, including:
Eating Behavior
- Eating large meals
- Eating foods high in fat, fried foods, or spicy foods
- Drinking caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks
- Regular alcohol consumption
- Eating close to bedtime, which increases the risk of stomach acid reflux
Being overweight or obese
- Excessive weight can increase intra-abdominal pressure, making it easier for stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus.
Smoking
- Smoking can decrease the function of the lower esophageal sphincter and stimulate stomach acid production. This increases the risk of acid reflux.
Pregnancy
- Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can weaken the esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
Aging Age
- As we age, the esophageal sphincter may weaken, making acid reflux more common in younger people.
Using Certain Medications
- Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain medications for high blood pressure, and medications for depression, may increase the risk of acid reflux.
Genetic Factors
- Some people may be at increased risk of acid reflux due to a family history of the condition.
How is acid reflux diagnosed?
A doctor can usually diagnose acid reflux based on a medical history and physical examination. Especially if a patient presents with heartburn or sour belching, they can provide initial treatment without requiring further testing. However, if symptoms do not improve with initial medication, additional testing may be necessary, including an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, a starch swallow test, an esophageal peristalsis test, and an esophageal pH test.
Danger Signs "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease"
If left untreated and untreated for a long period, GERD can lead to serious complications, including severe esophagitis. This occurs when stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus over a prolonged period, causing inflammation and ulceration of the esophageal lining, which can sometimes lead to esophageal stricture. Patients present with difficulty swallowing, sore throat, and excessive vomiting after every meal. They may also develop precancerous esophageal mucosa changes (Barrett's esophagus) and esophageal cancer, the most serious complication of GERD.
Warning signs that warrant upper gastroesophageal endoscopy include difficulty swallowing, sore throat, severe vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, such as black stools, bloody vomiting, or bloody stools, and unexplained weight loss.
