Acid reflux

A common condition and an abnormal one in which acid in the stomach rises up into the esophagus. This occurs because the valve separating the contents of the stomach from the esophagus does not function properly.

• GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a condition in which the acidified liquid content of the stomach backs up into the esophagus.
• Causes of GERD are complex and may involve multiple factors.
• GERD may damage the lining of the esophagus, thereby causing inflammation (esophagitis), although this is uncommon.
• Symptoms of uncomplicated GERD include:
  • heartburn,
  • regurgitation, and
  • nausea.
• Complications of GERD include:
  • ulcers and strictures of the esophagus,
  • Barrett’s esophagus,
  • cough and asthma,
  • throat and laryngeal inflammation,
  • inflammation and infection of the lungs, and
  • a collection of fluid in the sinuses and middle ear.
• GERD may be diagnosed or evaluated by a variety of procedures and tests.
• GERD is treated with lifestyle changes, diet, over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs (for example, antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), pro-motility drugs), and surgery.