Understanding GERD: What is It and How It Affects Me
There is nothing overly concerning about having a small amount of acid reflux every now and then. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of our bodies not completely agreeing with what we had for breakfast or lunch, earlier in the day. But if you are frequently experiencing that sour taste in your throat, and the sensation that food and drinks are not settling properly in your stomach once consumed, it may be that you have developed gastroesophageal reflux, otherwise known as GERD. Research shows that approximately 20 percent of Americans experience GERD, and it’s a condition that can lead to serious health issues, if left untreated.
What are the signs and symptoms of GERD?
Some of the most common symptoms of GERD, aside from those mentioned above, include:
- Heartburn – a burning sensation in your chest, that may intensify after meals or when you are lying down
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Sensation of a lump in your throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Chronic cough
- Chronic laryngitis, or swelling/irritation of the vocal cords
- New or worsening asthma
What increases my risk for developing GERD?
Some people experience GERD as a side effect of other medical conditions that have been diagnosed with or are undergoing medical care for. Many women who are pregnant experience GERD, but the issues typically subside on their own after childbirth.
People who have been diagnosed with connective tissue disorders and hiatal hernias (bulge at the top of the stomach) are at increased risk, too. In other situations, GERD can be prevented or managed through lifestyle changes. Some things that you can control, that may increase your risk for developing this condition include:
- Being overweight/obesity
- Delaying using the bathroom
- Smoking
- Eating large meals
- Eating late in the evening
- Consuming fatty and/or fried foods
- Consuming coffee and/or alcohol
How can GERD impact my quality of life?
Simply put, GERD is an unpleasant condition that can add pain and discomfort to your days. It can impact your ability to consume and enjoy food, your work, your sleep patterns, your social life, and your ability to keep up with everyday tasks (because let’s face it, when you are not feeling well, even simple to-do’s can feel overwhelming).
How is GERD treated?
Your doctor will be able to make recommendations on controllable lifestyle changes you can make, that may minimize or even resolve the problem. More serious cases can be treated with antacids, histamine blockers, or other medications that can lower your body’s acid secretions. In the most severe cases, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure.
How do I know the time is right to see a doctor?
Hoping that GERD will go away on its own is wishful thinking – especially if you are experiencing reflux frequently. Seeing a doctor is important, to not only minimize the impact of GERD on your life, but also to assure reflux doesn’t lead to a more complicated health issue.
To schedule an appointment with a specialist, please fill out our form, or call Beebe’s Heartburn Center at 302-291-6033.
