About GERD

 

At Newton-Wellesley Hospital, we know that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can be both painful and disruptive – significantly affecting your quality of life. We are here to help you better understand the disease and available treatment options.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition caused by changes in the gastroesophageal valve that allows acid to flow back into the esophagus from the stomach. GERD can lead to long-term bothersome symptoms, which can vary from mild to severe.

Common Symptoms:

  • a burning sensation in the center of your chest
  • regurgitation of acid or food contents

Additional Symptoms:

  • asthma
  • crinic dry cough
  • cronic sore throat
  • dental erosions
  • laryngitis or raspy voice
  • non-cardiac chest pain
  • sensation of a lump in your throat

Complications of GERD

If you experience heartburn symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek medical help, because untreated GERD can cause various complications over time:

  • Esophagitis – Inflammation of your esophagus (throat) resulting from stomach acid exposure on your esophagus’ sensitive tissue.
  • Esophageal stricture – Narrowing of the esophagus from scar tissue after repeated acid exposure, causing problems with swallowing.
  • Barrett’s esophagus – This rare complication is caused by long-term exposure of stomach acid in the esophagus that can increase one’s risk of esophageal cancer.
  • Aspiration – Sometimes stomach acid can enter the lungs, causing irritation and eventually the possibility of asthma, chest congestion, long-lasting cough, hoarse voice, or pneumonia.

When should I talk to my doctor about this?

  • If you have any of these symptoms listed above
  • If you have been using antacids (e.g. Tums) or heartburn medication (e.g. Nexium, Pepcid) for more than 6 months