GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

What Is GERD?
GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Gastroesophageal reflux describes a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.

Almost everyone experiences gastroesophageal reflux at some time. The usual symptom is heartburn, an uncomfortable burning sensation behind the breastbone, most commonly occurring after a meal. In some individuals this reflux is frequent or severe enough to cause more significant problems, that is a disease. Thus, gastroesophageal reflux disease is a clinical condition that occurs when reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus is severe enough to impact the patient’s life and/or damage the esophagus.

GERD vs. Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernia refers to a slippage of the top portion of the stomach through the "hiatus" of the diaphragm and into the chest. This is a common condition that increases in frequency with age. It may or may not be associated with GERD (GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease). When GERD is severe enough to be complicated by erosive esophagitis, seen as breaks in the lining of the esophagus, a hiatal hernia is usually present. However, most patients with a hiatal hernia do not have GERD.

Heartburn Drug Now OTC
The popular heartburn medicine Prilosec is now available over-the-counter.
Unlike antacids such as Tums or acid reducers like Pepcid, Prilosec takes a few days to build up strength and inhibit acid. For instance, it's not ideally used after a spicy meal, but is instead recommended for a 14-day period for people who suffer frequent or persistent heartburn.

Worsening GERD Symptoms
The major factor is meals. Meals stimulate the stomach to produce more acid that can reflux up into the esophagus. In some patients, lying down or taking certain medications can worsen acid reflux.