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| With GERD, frequent heartburn and other symptoms result when a weakened sphincter muscle allows stomach contents to flow upward
into the esophagus.
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What is GERD?
An amazing 20 to 40 percent of the U.S. population has symptoms of GERD, a condition that results when stomach contents, including
acid, back up into the
esophagus. GERD is caused by a weakened sphincter muscle – a valve in the lower esophagus that closes after food passes from the throat
to the stomach. For people with GERD, this valve malfunctions and the resulting upward flow (reflux) can cause frequent heartburn
– by far the most common symptom – and possibly food sticking, regurgitation, coughing or wheezing. If GERD is very severe,
it may result in blood or weight loss or a narrowing of the esophagus. It can also put one at risk for esophageal cancer.
How is GERD diagnosed?
If you have heartburn more two or more times a week, you may have GERD. To find out if you do, your gastroenterologist will
need to know about your symptoms and lifestyle. If your doctor suspects GERD, he or she may need to perform an endoscopy or
take an acid reflux measurement.
Endoscopy: Gastroenterologists often use endoscopes to view organs of the digestive system. An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube with
a lens and light on one end. Endoscopies do not cause much discomfort and do not usually require a general anesthetic.
Acid reflux measurement: Gastroenterologists at Albert Einstein Medical Center may use the new Bravo system to measure acid reflux. With Bravo, your
physician clips a small capsule onto your esophagus to get a reflux reading over a 48-hour period. This new approach is more
comfortable for you, and your doctor will still get accurate results. Doctors can also take this measurement by placing a
tube in the esophagus through the nose – the more traditional and widely used technique.
How is GERD treated?
Most GERD patients need to take medications to control GERD symptoms. You may try several over the counter and prescribed
medications before finding one that works for you. Surgery is also a possibility if other treatment options don't control
symptoms.
Glossary Term:
Esophagus– The tube through which food passes from the mouth to the stomach.
