GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic digestive disease in which the food or liquid engulfed leaks backwards into the esophagus. This results in irritation in the esophagus, heartburn, and other symptoms. It affects people of all ages. People with Asthma are very prone to GERD. Some Asthma medicines worsen reflux symptoms.
What Are The Causes Of GERD:
Eating habits instigate the symptoms of the disease. If you move to the bed soon after taking heavy or regular food, GERD may occur. Alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, or tea may also cause stomach upset and GERD. The symptoms may occur in an individual if he is overweight, pregnant or taking certain medications such as aspirin.
Signs And Symptoms Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease :
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a very common disease thus most of us occasionally experience some of its symptoms. Following are the primary symptoms of GERD:
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Difficulty swallowing
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Cough or wheezing.
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Difficulty or pain when swallowing
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Sudden excess of saliva
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Chronic sore throat
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Laryngitis or hoarseness
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Inflammation of the gums
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Hiccups
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Hoarseness or change in voice
If undiagnosed for a long time, GERD can cause Esophagitis. Some patients also report mild symptoms such as food allergies and cyclic vomiting as well.
GERD Diagnosis And Treatment:
It’s not mandatory to call upon your doctor if symptoms are normal, but if they become severe you should visit your doctor immediately. If in doubt, you should always consult with your physician. Doctors often suggest a few changes in lifestyle, certain laboratory tests, and a medication schedule. Following are the laboratory tests that are often done to diagnose the disease.
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X-ray of the upper digestive system
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Endoscopy
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Ambulatory acid (pH) test
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Esophageal impedance test
Doctors also perform a stool occult blood test to track the irritation in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. On the basis of the results, doctors often recommend patients some effective medication to treat the disease. Tecta, Zegerid, Zantac, Protonix, Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium are some of the very popular drugs recommended and prescribed by doctors for GERD treatment.