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Gastroesophageal reflux disease

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Digestive system
Digestive system
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Upper gastrointestinal system
Upper gastrointestinal system
Gastroesophageal reflux - series
Gastroesophageal reflux - series

Alternative Names    Return to top

Peptic esophagitis; Reflux esophagitis; GERD; Heartburn - chronic

Definition    Return to top

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which food or liquid travels backwards from the stomach to the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). This action can irritate the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.

Causes    Return to top

Gastroesophageal reflux is a common condition that often occurs without symptoms after meals. In some people, the reflux is related to a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter, a band of muscle fibers that usually closes off the esophagus from the stomach. If this sphincter doesn't close properly, food and liquid can move backward into the esophagus and may cause the symptoms.

The risk factors for reflux include hiatal hernia, pregnancy, and scleroderma.

A number of studies suggest that obesity contributes to gastroesophageal reflux. For instance, the Nurses Health Study found that being overweight or obese significantly increased reflux symptoms in women. (Women who lost weight in the study, meanwhile, had fewer symptoms.)

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Treatment    Return to top

General measures include:

Medications that alleviate symptoms include: Anti-reflux operations (Nissen fundoplication) may help a small number of patients who have persistent symptoms despite medical treatment. There are also new therapies that can be performed through an endoscope (a flexible tube passed through the mouth into the stomach) for reflux.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The majority of people respond to nonsurgical measures with behavioral modification and medications.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve with lifestyle changes or medication.

Prevention    Return to top

Avoid foods and activities that worsen symptoms. Maintain a healthy weight.

Update Date: 12/19/2007

Updated by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz, Kelli A. Stacy, ELS. Previously reviewed by Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-TorresdaleHospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (7/28/2006).

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