Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a long-term problem where stomach contents, including acid, keep flowing back into the oesophagus. This reflux happens because the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle valve that ordinarily keeps stomach contents from moving back, is weak or not relaxing properly. When acid stays in the oesophagus for a long time, it can irritate the lining, causing symptoms including heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and a foul taste in the mouth.

People of all ages can develop GERD, but being overweight, pregnant, smoking, and eating foods that exacerbate it, such as spicy or fatty meals, coffee, and alcohol, are all risk factors. In certain instances, individuals may present with extra-oesophageal manifestations, including chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat irritation.

Diagnosis is frequently clinical but may be augmented by endoscopy, pH monitoring, or oesophageal manometry in complex instances. Management emphasises lifestyle modifications—such as weight loss, dietary alterations, and avoiding late meals—concomitant with pharmaceutical interventions, often proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H? receptor antagonists.

If not addressed, GERD can cause problems, including oesophagitis, strictures, or Barrett's oesophagus, which is a condition where the oesophagus lining changes and can lead to cancer. Recognising and treating problems early on greatly improves the quality of life and lowers long-term dangers.