Gastritis

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) develops when the lower esophageal sphincter weakens, allowing stomach acid to irritate the esophagus lining. Common in adults, it affects 10-20% globally, with symptoms like burning chest pain worsening after meals or lying down. Chronic cases risk esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, or respiratory issues from aspiration.

Causes and Symptoms

Triggers include obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, smoking, spicy/fatty foods, caffeine, and certain drugs like NSAIDs. Beyond heartburn, patients report regurgitation, sour taste, chronic cough, hoarseness, nausea, and swallowing difficulty. Nighttime reflux often disrupts sleep and signals severe disease.

Treatment Options

Lifestyle fixes: elevate bed head, avoid triggers, eat smaller meals, lose weight, quit smoking. Medications feature antacids for quick relief, H2 blockers like famotidine for moderate cases, and PPIs (omeprazole) for healing—90% effective. Surgery, such as fundoplication, suits refractory GERD.