Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition that occurs when stomach contents regularly flow back up into the esophagus. GERD can cause heartburn, regurgitation, and
other symptoms:
- Pain
- Nausea
- Bad breath
- Trouble breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
- Wearing away of tooth enamel
- A lump in your throat
GERD can be caused by a weak or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter, the muscular tube that normally prevents stomach acid from coming back up.
Lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications can help manage GERD symptoms. Some patients may also need surgery or a combination of treatments.
Some lifestyle changes that may help prevent GERD include:
- Eating small meals frequently
- Avoiding large meals
- Staying upright after eating
- Finishing eating 2–3 hours before going to bed
- Quitting or avoiding smoking
- Avoiding strenuous activities after eating
- Losing weight if overweight
- Minimizing wearing tight clothing around the abdomen
- Sleeping at a slight angle with the head slightly elevated
Foods that are high in fat, salt, or spice, such as fried food, fast food, pizza, and fatty meats, can trigger GERD symptoms.