Things That You Need to Know About GERD

by djneight

GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition wherein the gastric acid from the stomach goes up to the esophagus which results to the inflammation of the esophagus called esophagitis. The word reflux refers to the upward or the reverse movement of gastric contents from the stomach to the esophagus.

An untreated GERD often results to discomforts and inflammation of the esophagus. Sometimes, it can result to other complications such as the narrowing of the esophagus, ulcerations, bleeding, and severe damage to the esophagus.

The main symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease is usually heartburn. Heartburn is the painful sensation that rises from the stomach or lower chest towards the neck and the throat. There are instances where in a bitter or sour taste in the mouth can be experienced.

True enough, we often experience heartburn; however, when heartburn becomes frequent and occurs more than two to three times per week, then it may be indicative of GERD.

GERD happens when the anti-reflux mechanisms at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach do not work properly. This is possibly caused by a weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter that normally functions by keeping off the acidic contents of the stomach back to the esophagus.

As mentioned, GERD is suspected when a person experiences heartburn at least two to three times per week. In diagnosing GERD, the doctor will review the signs and symptoms that manifest in the patient. Endoscopy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

In order to manage gastroesophageal reflux disease, the gastric acidity of the patient needs to be reduced. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors or PPI are very effective in maintaining the intragastric pH and suppress gastric acid secretion.

Severity of GERD can be classified depending on the severity of esophagitis or inflammation of the esophagus. It has Grade A to Grade D where D is the most severe classification. In Grade D, the mucosal breaks in the esophagus involve at least 75% of the mucosal circumference.

If you really want to prevent such conditions from happening, it is important to keep your body healthy by engaging in physical activities. You can contact personal trainer Sydney to get more information about trainings and workouts that are suitable for you.