Diseases
gerd
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time.
Symptoms
- a burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating.
- backwash (regurgitation) of food or sour liquid
- upper abdominal or chest pain
- trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
- sensation of a lump in your throat
Causes
- if the sphincter does not relax as it should or it weakens, stomach acid can flow back into your esophagus.
Risk factors
- obesity
- pregnancy
- bulging of the top of the stomach up above the diaphragm (hiatal hernia)
Diagnosis
- upper endoscopy.
- ambulatory acid (ph) probe test.
- x-ray of the upper digestive system.
- esophageal manometry.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is gerd?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time.
What are the symptoms of gerd?
a burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating., backwash (regurgitation) of food or sour liquid, upper abdominal or chest pain, trouble swallowing (dysphagia), sensation of a lump in your throat
What causes gerd?
if the sphincter does not relax as it should or it weakens, stomach acid can flow back into your esophagus.
Which medicines are used for gerd?
cimetidine, dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, famotidine, lansoprazole, nizatidine, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, ranitidine
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