Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, includes heartburn as one of its main symptoms. GERD is the most common gastrointestinal diagnosis during office visits, according to a 2006 article in the "American Journal of Gastroenterology." The cause of GERD is the malfunction of a muscle at the end of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter. Risk factors for GERD include obesity, smoking, and acidic foods and beverages. Lifestyle changes, and prescription and over-the-counter medications, can improve GERD symptoms.
Chest Pain
Chest pain associated with GERD and heartburn is a burning sensation that occurs behind the sternum and radiates up to the neck and throat. This occurs because the lower esophageal sphincter cannot keep stomach acid and partially digested food from getting into the esophagus. Chest pain is worse during and after eating, and responds well to acid suppression therapy.
Acid Reflux
The presence of acid and digestive enzymes in the esophagus causes acid reflux. Some people experience a bitter or sour taste in the mouth, and may also regurgitate partially digested food. Acid reflux is uncomfortable and irritates the esophageal lining. Avoid acidic foods and beverages such as coffee, spicy foods, alcohol and tomatoes. Cigarette smoking also contributes to acid reflux by increasing stomach acid production, and should be completely avoided.
Cough
Chronic dry cough is a frequent complaint of GERD sufferers. The "ACCP Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines" reported that in 75 percent of cases, cough may be the only GERD symptom present. GERD causes coughing because it activates the cough reflex and irritates the throat. Antireflux treatment is effective in treating GERD-related cough; however, surgery may be necessary if drug therapy fails.
Dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, is a GERD symptom described as having a lump in the throat. Partially digested food stuck in the throat is often the cause of GERD-related dysphagia. Slowed food motility down the esophagus into the stomach also triggers dysphagia. Chew food completely and eat slower to minimize dysphagia discomfort.
References
- American College of Gastroenterology: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- "American Journal of Gastroenterology"; The burden of gastrointestinal and liver diseases; Shasheen NJ, et al.; 2006
- "The American Journal of Medicine"; The Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease; Brian E. Lacy, et al.; 2010
- "Chest"; Chronic Cough Due to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease : ACCP Evidence-BasedClinical Practice Guidelines; Richard S. Irwin; 2006
