GERD Gastroesophageal Reflux

It may first appear as a frequent tickle in the back of the throat, coughing that may last for weeks in the absence of known illness, hoarseness, even bad breath, or sour taste. Sometimes there may be mild or moderate back pain or chest pain that seems akin to a heart attack. The most common symptom is frequent heartburn. Millions of Americans, young and old, suffer daily with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD. Untreated, GERD can be life threatening.

Gastric reflux occurs when stomach contents escape into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The lining of the stomach protects it from digestive acids.

The lining of the esophagus does not provide the same protection. Stomach acid that enters the esophagus burns the lining and causes reversible changes called esophagitis. Continued acid assault of the esophageal lining may cause ulcers or even esophageal cancer.

The primary care physician often makes the diagnosis of GERD. A thorough medical history may reveal some of the symptoms in the above list. The physician will recommend treating the disease with dietary and lifestyle changes first. The dietary recommendations will include instructions to avoid foods that increase reflux such as fatty or fried foods, peppermint and spearmint, whole milk, oils, chocolate, creamed foods or soups, and most fast foods. GERD sufferers should avoid foods that irritate the lower esophagus including coffee and black and green tea (regular or decaffeinated), citrus fruits and beverages including tomatoes and tomato products, carbonated beverages, spicy foods and alcohol. These restrictions only seem difficult until they bring relief. Then, they become a natural part of living pain free.