Definition:

                             Gastro esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring that separates the esophagus from the stomach, becomes weak or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can move upward into the esophagus, leading to GERD.

Causes:

 • The primary cause of GERD is the malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

 • Other contributing factors may include hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, and certain medication.

Symptoms:

• Common symptoms of GERD include:

 1. Heartburn:

                          A burning sensation in the chest or throat.

2. Regurgitation:

                               Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth.

 3. Chest pain:

                            May resemble heart pain, and individuals should seek medical attention to rule out cardiac issues.

 4. Difficulty swallowing:

                                               Due to irritation and narrowing of the esophagus.

5. Chronic cough or hoarseness:

                                                 Resulting from stomach acid irritating the throat.

Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis is often based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment.

• In some cases, diagnostic tests such as upper endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, and imaging studies may be performed to assess the severity of GERD and rule out complications.

Treatment:

• Lifestyle modifications are often the first line of treatment and may include:

1. Dietary changes: Avoiding trigger foods, such as spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, and chocolate.

2. Weight management: Losing weight if overweight.

3. Elevating the head of the bed during sleep.

4. Avoiding large meals before bedtime.

5. Quitting smoking.

 Medications:

• Medications may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production or neutralize acid. Examples include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers and antacids.

• Prokinetic agents may be prescribed to improve esophageal motility.