HEARTBURN
FAQs
What
is GERD? This acronym stands for gastroesophageal reflux
disease. It's a condition that occurs when the acid contents
in the stomach reflux into the esophagus, irritating and
burning the delicate tissue found there.
How
many people have symptoms of GERD? More than 20 million
people in the US suffer from symptoms of heartburn daily.
There are no doubt many more who do not visit a doctor to
report them.
Is
heartburn the same thing as GERD? Heartburn is just
one of the many symptoms of GERD. Others include regurgitation,
coughing, hoarseness, chest pains, asthma, and difficulty
swallowing. Heartburn, however, is the most common symptom.
What
are the possible complications of untreated GERD? If
untreated, GERD can develop into esophagitis, ulcers, Barrett's
esophagus, or even esophageal adenocarcinoma. Don't wait
to get treated.
Is
GERD the result of poor eating habits? Poor eating habits
can trigger GERD. It is caused by a relaxed lower esophageal
sphincter valve that doesn't close tightly, by delayed emptying
in your stomach, or by a slow motility that keeps acid in
your esophagus a long time.
What
is a possible side effect of long-term use of antacids?
Long term use of calcium-based antacids can affect your
kidneys, while those with bicarbonate can build up sodium
in your system. Both can mask your true condition of GERD
and delay getting a proper diagnosis of GERD.
What
treatment is available for GERD? The treatment used
today to treat GERD includes lifestyle modifications, medications,
and surgery.
Does
smoking hurt you if you have GERD? Yes, smoking lowers
the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter valve. It
also reduces the amount of saliva that is meant to dilute
any acid present in the esophagus.
